12 Best Rated Weighted Vests – In-Depth Review

A mong the most efficient and affordable ways to build more muscles and increase endurance is to put on a weighted vest while training. No matter if you work out at your home gym, you run on the elliptical trainer, or you use the Pilates reformer, you can wear a vest to surge the intensity of your training sessions.

They are in trend, so you have probably heard about them from your friends or other people who use them. Many of those who wear weighted clothing agree upon the fact that they help improve performance. Well, they are right. So, if you want to upgrade your training routine, maybe it is time to start integrating a weighted vest into your physical training.

The weighted vests are available in various sizes and styles, and some can be utilized by both men and women. Among the important aspects to consider when buying one is how much weight can be added. The weights should be increased gradually, so the more pockets, the better. For making things easier for you, we selected and compared the best models at the moment. Take your time and choose wisely!

Top Rated 12 Weighted Vests

Photo	Product	Type	Weight Capacity	Weight Types	Materials	Extra Storage Pockets	Price
Best Overall	1. RUNFast Max Pro	Unisex	12 lbs., 20 lbs., 40 lbs., 50 lbs., 60 lbs.	Sand bags	Nylon		Check Price
Our Choice	2. Aduro Sport	Unisex	4 lbs., 6 lbs., 12 lbs., 20 lbs., 25 lbs.	Sand bags	Neoprene		Check Price
Best for Women	3. Empower Weighted Vest	Women	4 lbs., 8 lbs., 16 lbs.	Sand bags	Lycra spandex		Check Price
Best for Men	4. Cross 101	Men	20 lbs., 30 lbs., 40 lbs., 50 lbs., 60 lbs., 70 lbs., 80 lbs.	Iron ore weights	Velcro		Check Price
Best for Running	5. ZFOsports	Unisex	20 lbs., 40 lbs., 60 lbs.	Iron ore weights	1000D reinforced nylon		Check Price
Best for Walking	6. Cap Barbell Adjustable	Men	40 lbs., 50 lbs., 60 lbs., 70 lbs., 80 lbs., 100 lbs., 120 lbs., 150 lbs.	Iron ore	Reinforced nylon & polyester		Check Price
	7. TNT Pro Series Iron Weighted Vest	Women	11 lbs.	Iron pellet	Nylon		Check Price
	8. Mir Air Flow	Unisex	20 lbs., 30 lbs., 40 lbs., 50 lbs., 60 lbs.	Cast iron	Resistant denim		Check Price
	9. Tone Fitness Weighted Vest	Women	12 lbs.	Sand	Neoprene		Check Price
Best for Hiking	10. Hyperwear Hyper Vest PRO	Unisex	10 lbs.	High density steel	Stretch fabric		Check Price
	11. V-Force	Men	45 lbs.	Cast iron	Military-grade materials		Check Price
	12. Harbinger Men’s	Men	20 lbs., 40 lbs.	Sand bags	N/A		Check Price

1. RUNFast Max Pro

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This vest is a nice choice if you seek to take your workout session to the next level. It is available in a universal size that fits most users, the fact that it is unisex adding to its usefulness as you can share it with your hubby. For additional versatility, you have the possibility to select between a model with shoulder pads or without shoulder pads, dependent on the setup you prefer best. It is available in 5 weight sizes as follows: 12 lbs, 20 lbs, 40 lbs, 50 lbs, and 60 lbs.

No matter what size you select, the weights will be incorporated, so you will not have to pay extra money. They are filled with sand and they are placed both in the frontal and back side of the wearable, for a well-balanced workout.

The vest is pretty solid, which means that it is manufactured using quality materials. The Velcro strap is very durable, and you have the additional bonus of being able to customize its fit according to your body size. It is made of nylon that is sweat-resistant and ensures breathability during intense physical effort.

For more convenience, it features a pocket where you can place a small MP3 player. The manufacturer backs the product for one year.

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2. Aduro Sport

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This vest is appropriate for both men and women, and it less bulky than other models. It is available in black, and you may pick from 5 weight sizes – 4, 6, 12, 20, and 25 pounds.

It is manufactured of neoprene fabric that allows perspiration to pass through the fabric in the course of your exercise sessions. This aids enhance the degree of comfort as you wear the vest. At the back, the vest has a mesh pocket where you can put additional weights.

To achieve a tight fit, the vest integrates an adjustable top strap that stretches between 3.5 and 11 inches or 4 and 10 inches (according to the size). Its purpose is to aid stop the vest from moving around while performing your drills.

For this product, the manufacturer offers a lifetime limited warranty.

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3. Empower Weighted Vest

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Specially made for women, this vest features a contoured x-shape design that helps disseminate the weight evenly. It is manufactured of soft lycra and spandex, for increased comfort. It features reflective trim both on the front and the back, being perfect for walking or running at night.

Due to the flexible side straps, this model fits women with a waist size between 24 and 48 inches. The straps also help remain in place when working out. For extra comfort, the manufacturer added pads in the shoulder straps.

It is available in 3 weight sizes – 4, 8, and 16 pounds. The weights are sand pockets, and for the 4 and 8 pounds vests, they are not removable as they are sewn inside the vest. Additionally, it has a built-in pocket to store your items.

For maintaining it, you have to clean the visible spots by hand. To get the most out of your exercises, you will also receive a workout guide.

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4. Cross 101

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The next model that caught our attention is Cross 101. It is available in only one size and one color, but the belt enables you to adjust it just as you want. With a peak weight capacity of 40 lbs., this model is what you need for an intensive workout at the gym and not only.

The iron ore weighs come in 4 lbs. increments and all of them are included. But you can only load them in the front as there are no back pockets with this model.

We also like the fact that Cross 101 features Velcro around the waist, and all the pockets come with a Velcro cover.

As opposed to our top picks, this one has a pocket to store your phone and a pocket for your water or energizer. Moreover, the fabric is moisture and odor immune.

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5. ZFOsports

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ZFOsports is another great vest worth considering, especially if you want it to be well-made without paying a fortune. This model comes in one size and can be worn by both men and women, you just have to adjust the Velcro belt for a perfect fit.

The peak weight you can load in the sacks is 40 pounds, and all the iron ore weights are included. You can load them in the front and the back, according to your preferences.

The vest features a simple black design, being manufactured from 1000D reinforced nylon. Another interesting thing about this model is that the body and shoulders feature double padding and lining.

The fabrics are moisture and stench resistant, so no matter how intense your drill is, the sweat will not get into the fabric.

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6. Cap Barbell Adjustable

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Specially designed to add strength training to your training, this vest will help you increase endurance, improve your cardiovascular system, burn fat, and so on. The vest is available in more sizes (40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 100, 120, and 150 pounds) to suit your preferences. The dimensions are different as they rely on the size you select.

The weight can be adjusted by removing as many weight pockets as you want. Each pocket contains 2.5 pounds of iron ore fines. The weight pockets are located both in the front and in the back, thus creating a perfect balance. The waist belt is also adjustable to help you achieve a snug fit.

The fabrics are good quality – reinforced nylon and polyester. The shoulder straps are padded to provide comfort. Additionally, it features reflective stripes that make you visible at night.

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7. TNT Pro Series Iron Weighted Vest

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Lose weight more efficiently with this vest. No matter if you are a man or a woman, wearing the TNT Pro Series vest when working out will help you lose some extra pounds.

A great thing about this vest is the fact that it includes iron pellets and metal rock that prevent odor during intense exercises. The total weight of the pellets is 11 pounds, and the stitching is high quality.

The weight is distributed uniformly, although there are clients who say there is more weight distributed on the bottom. Luckily, this fact does not affect its performance.

You can keep your mobile device or MP3 at the back as the vest comprises a mesh pocket that is very easy to access. Although it has a strap that permits you to adapt the vest for a tight fit, small women may find it a little big, especially around the shoulders and the chest.

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8. Mir Air Flow

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This vest can help you increase the intensity of your workouts. It is well-made and provides a tight fit no matter if you are running, biking, or exercising at the gym.

It is available in one size, but you have more options in terms of weight – 20, 30, 40, 50, or 60 pounds. The weights are made of solid iron, and you can easily add or remove them according to your preferences as the pockets feature a hook-and-loop closure.

It is entirely manufactured of quality fabrics, so it is highly durable and comfortable. The denim-like fabric does not only look nice, but it is also sweat and stench resistant. To clean it, you can wash it in the washing machine, and then you can put it in the dryer.

For a snug fit, it features shoulder straps that allow you to adjust its length and a Velcro belt to adjust its width. For this vest, the manufacturer offers a lifetime warranty service.

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9. Tone Fitness Weighted Vest

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With a nice design and quality materials, this vest is ideal for women who want to get rid of the surplus pounds faster. It is manufactured of neoprene fabric and breathable mesh, which makes the wearable snug to put on and well ventilated so that you won’t sweat too much.

The vest is available in one size only, but due to the fact that it features a strap, you can adapt it to achieve a perfect fit for your body type and size. It is around 14 inches long and 12 inches wide. You can opt for two different colors, black or blue.

You can wear it both during the day and at night as it features reflective strips that will make you more visible.

The peak weight capacity of the vest is 12 pounds, and all the weighs – which are made of sand – are included. This weight makes it a little bit too heavy, and unfortunately, you cannot take any of them off.

Cleaning it is not that simple considering that you cannot put it in the washing machine. Therefore, you have to wash it by hand and let it dry in a cool place.

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10. Hyperwear Hyper Vest PRO

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Resistance is generally hard to add to workouts, but this is not the case if you include the Hyper Vest PRO to the routine as it is specially designed for this purpose. It is great for cardio and polymeric training sessions as it gets close and tight to you, promoting twisting mobility. It flaunts a unisex design, which implies that you can share it with others, and it includes 10 pounds of weights.

Design

The stretch fabric is very snug and lasting. It is odor-resistant and breathable as well, making the vest ideal for long workouts. Since it is available in multiple size options, both men and women can get their appropriate size. There are plenty of weight packets in the front and the back for a balanced drill.

• Front zipper: permits you to effortlessly put the vest on or take it off.
• Elastic side lacing: ceasy to adapt so that you achieve a snug fit that feels cozy at the same time. The lacing also promotes ventilation.

Features

The many little pockets are fitted close to your core so when jumping or training, the vest stays on – this prevents damaging your joints. Moreover, when you are lying on the ground, you can keep the vest on as the weighs will not make you feel uncomfortable. For improved performance, you can arrange the weights pursuant to your preferences.

• Horizontal plane: does not restrict movement.
• Steel weights: each of them weighs 0.14 pounds, and you get a total of 10 pounds. You can also purchase additional weighs.

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11. V-Force

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There are not many vests as cozy and well-made as V-Force. The model is available for men only, and it comes in one size. However, for added convenience, you can opt between broad and narrow shoulder width, and you can select between multiple colors. You can load up to 45 lbs., and it features enamel-coated iron weights in 2.5 increments.

All of them are included, and the pockets are placed in the front and the back, permitting you to customize the vest pursuant to your preferences.

The product is made from military-grade materials, and it comes with many features that are meant to provide an enhanced level of comfort when wearing it. Therefore, it has a heavy nylon liner that makes it resistant to abrasion and fully padded body and shoulders for a comfortable fit.

You can also adjust it with the help of the straps. Moreover, the fabrics are stench and perspiration resistant, and we like the fact that it features hydration-pack-ready shoulders.

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12. Harbinger Men’s

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Here is another weighted vest to go with if you want to take your workout to the next level. Harbinger Men’s was specially made for men, and it comes in one size. Nonetheless, you can adapt it with the help of the neoprene belt.

The included plastic sand weights have 1-pound each, and the total number you can use is 20. Fortunately, all the weights are included, so you won’t have to pay any extra money. For more convenience, you can place them both in the front and back pockets.

The overall construction is durable, and you can put it on or take it off with no hassle. It features a durable outer shell, and the shoulders and the chest feature dual padding cushions.

As about the fabrics, you can rest assure as it is not only moisture resistant but also odor-resistant, which allows you to take it under your clothes when performing your daily activities.

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How the Products Were Rated

Rating the products is an important process when it comes to deciding which ones are the best. Therefore, the best way to rank the selected weighted vests is by simply comparing them in terms of capacity, fabrics, warranty, and so on. While it is true that all the vests we picked are popular and well-designed, some of them have impressed us from more points of view.

• Peak weight capacity: even though you may not use the vest to its full capacity, it is always good to have the possibility to add as many weights as you want. Of course, it is recommended to load them gradually, but still, the more you can add, the more versatile the vest is.
• Weights included: if the weights are not included you will have to buy them separately. But this means extra money. Fortunately, most of the selected products come with all the weights included, except for Hyperwear Hyper Vest PRO. With this model, the manufacturer includes only 10 lbs, so if you want to add more weights you have to pay for them.

• Pockets position: each vest comes with tiny pockets for loading the weights, their position differing from one model to another. Some of them have pockets located in the front and the back while others have pockets only in the front. For a perfect balance, it is best to have weights placed not only in the front but also in the back.
• Opening and closing system: nobody wants a vest that is difficult to put on or take off. Each model has an opening and closing system, but it is designed differently. Most manufacturers use belts or straps that allow you to adjust the vest for a tight fit. The belts may be made from Velcro, neoprene, or other fabrics. An innovative system is a full zipper featured by Hyperwear Hyper Vest PRO, but since the zipper cannot be adjusted, the manufacturer also added side lacing.
• Moisture & odor resistance: because the body sweats more when wearing weighted clothing, the fabrics have to be carefully selected. For this reason, a great choice is to opt for moisture-resistant fabrics, thus preventing the growth of bacteria. Also, the fabrics have to be able to keep away bad odor, so most materials are stench resistant. Therefore, all the vests selected are perspiration and odor resistant.
• Warranty: knowing that the product you buy is backed by the manufacturer in case it is defective offers you more comfort. Most manufacturers offer a standard 12-month warranty. But there are some exceptions. The products with the longest warranty are Aduro Sport V-Force and Mir Air Flow that offers an impressive lifetime warranty.

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5 Benefits You Should Know About

The reason why the weighted vests are so popular is that they provide excellent benefits. Wearing them while running, walking, or exercising is the best way to enhance the intensity of your training. Besides being a great tool for fitness, you will surely like the fact that they are lasting and comfortable. So, here are some of the most significant benefits of using a weighted training vest.

• 1. Increases body strength and stamina: When training with a vest, your body has to adapt to the additional weight, so your muscles will become stronger. However, you do not have to exaggerate with the weights, add them gradually, and let your body accommodate more weight without forcing it. It takes time and patience to achieve the results you want.
• 2. Improves bone density: Improving bone density is much easier if you wear a vest while running. As we have said before, your body will have to become stronger, so the muscles, along with the bones will work together to face all the extra weight.
• 3. Helps burn more calories: If your goal is to get rid of the extra pounds, then you can be sure that a weight vest will help you do that faster. Usually, during physical exercise, you burn an increased amount of calories, and the more intense is your workout the greater the number of calories you will burn.
• 4. Improves the cardiovascular system: A great way to improve your heart and cardiovascular system is to increase the intensity of your workout. Since your body has to work harder, your heart needs to keep pace with it and supply more blood to your muscles. In time, this translates to a healthier cardiovascular.
• 5. Increases the lung capacity: Besides more blood, your body also needs more oxygen when working with extra weights. This will force your lungs to expand and increase their capacity over time. Therefore, your respiratory system will be improved, allowing you to breathe with ease while performing your daily tasks.

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Top Brands

Although there are many weighted vests available, only some brands have managed to distinguish themselves in terms of performance. Names like Harbinger, Hyperwear, and others are well-known among those who want to push their body to the limit and change the current workout routine.

• Hyperwear

  Hypervest is a very popular brand in the fitness industry. The company manufactures a wide range of products, including storage solutions or softball accessories. Additionally, you can also opt for the Hypervest softbell, sandbeel, or steelbell. Among the most successful products is the Hyper Vest PRO that has received the Men’s Health award for the best weight vest.

• Harbinger

  Ever since 1988, Harbinger has been manufacturing high-quality gloves and belts, as well as various weightlifting accessories. The company has managed to gain the trust of many customers worldwide. Currently, the company designs and manufactures three vests: 2 models for men with a peak capacity of 20 and 40 pounds and one for women with a peak capacity of 10 pounds.

• Weight Vest

  Established in 1981, the company has been producing weight vests of superior quality, and now, it is worldwide recognized for manufacturing numerous weight vests, including the Box vests and the V-Force and V-Max short and long vests. All of them are meant to help you test your fitness limits and achieve your goals.

• ZFOsports

  When it comes to renowned fitness brands, ZFOsports is in the front rank. The company comes with a long history behind, so now, customers all over the world can enjoy a wide range of products at a great price. At this moment, ZFOsports manufactures a great number of vests, among which the popular are ZFO, ZFS, or ZFL vests. Moreover, the company produces vests for women, as well as weighted belts, gloves, and so on.

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Conclusion

Considering the benefits of a weighted vest, we believe it is a great investment if you want to take your fitness routine to the next level and achieve the body of your dreams. From the many models available, we have selected the best of them to make sure you make the right choice.

Best Overall Weighted Vest: RUNFast Max Pro

It is a universal vest that can be utilized by both men and women with different body sizes. Made of high-quality materials that are resistant to wear and sweat, it will prove to be a long-term investment that will accompany you through many hours of training. The weights are included and you can select how heavy you want it to be. Moreover, the Velcro strap makes it easy to open and close for easy manipulation.

It comes with extra-storage pockets, so it is an excellent fit for runners or users who wish to train outdoors, as they can carry their belongings with them. Plus, the sand weights provide great weight distribution that increases comfort during workouts.

Editor’s Choice: Aduro Sport

Designed for intense workouts, this model features a comfortable design and is provided with sandbags that are evenly spread in the front and back positions. It is made of high-quality neoprene that resists sweat and odor, so it is appropriate for any sort of workout. It comes in 5 weight sizes and features an adjustable front strap that stretches to fit as many users as possible. Furthermore, it is backed by a super generous lifetime warranty so you can put your mind at rest as this is a trustworthy acquisition.

Best Weighted Vest for Running: ZFOsports

Runners need a reliable vest that can provide excellent performance, comfort, and safety for outdoor training. This model comes with premium features, designed to cover every aspect of this activity. It is lasting and resistant to perspiration and includes a special pocket for the water bottle and another to accommodate a phone or a music device. It is appropriate for both men and women and features double padding and lining, which offer relief during long workouts. Additionally, it is easy to adjust, as the opening and closing system consists of a Velcro strap.

Best Weighted Vest for Walking: Cap Barbell Adjustable

Walking is an excellent way to lose weight, as it engages nearly all the muscles in your body. Nevertheless, you can boost the results of this activity with a little help from a premium weighted vest, and this model from Cap Barbell is just the right option. You can use it on the street day and night, as it comes with reflective strips to keep you visible for the drivers. The cushioned shoulder offers relief from the extra-weight while the waist belt adjusts and allows you to customize it to your body shape. Plus, it includes anchor bolts, so it is a great choice for parachute run training as well.

Best Weighted Vest for Hiking: Hyperwear Hyper Vest PRO

Extremely comfortable due to the lightweight design and breathable material, this vest can be worn under clothes and offers excellent freedom of movement for hikers. It is unisex and can be easily adjusted to fit most users due to the side lacing. The weights are made of steel, and it arrives with 10 pounds of them, but there is extra room if you wish to add more and intensify your training. Besides that, it is super easy to close and open with the front zipper that allows for easier maneuverability.