Best Weighted Vest for Workouts – Introduction
What are the top weighted vests on the market today?
You don’t need access to a ton of expensive gym equipment to build muscle and strength, get fitter, or lose weight.
You don’t even need to join a gym to get into great shape.
In fact, you have everything you need to work out with you right now – your body.
Bodyweight training is arguably one of the best ways to train for almost any fitness goal.
With bodyweight training, you can work out:
- Anywhere
- Anytime
- For free!
Exercises like push-ups, pull-ups, air squats, lunges, and planks work your muscles in a very safe and functional way.
Most bodyweight exercises can be modified to match your current fitness level.
There are dozens, if not hundreds, of variations you can use to make sure that your workouts are never boring.
However, there is one disadvantage to bodyweight training: your body weight!
You’ll have to use the same resistance for all the exercises in your workout and will probably need to do more reps for some exercises than for others.
For example, you may only need to do ten reps to fatigue your arms and back during pull-ups, but 30 reps for squats as your legs are considerably stronger.
Also, the most common way to make bodyweight exercises more challenging is to perform more reps.
High-rep sets can be time-consuming and boring and aren’t much good for building strength.
Thankfully, there is a simple way to make bodyweight training more challenging, time-efficient, and rewarding – use a weighted vest.
You can also use weighted fitness gear to make cardio more effective.
This buying guide reveals what to look for in a weighted vest and reviews five of our favorite models.
So, What Is A Weighted Vest, Anyway?
A weighted vest is basically a set of wearable weights that you can use to make bodyweight and cardio exercise more challenging.
For example, you can walk, jog, run, sprint, and jump rope while wearing a weighted fitness pack to burn more calories and get fitter faster.
They can also be worn for exercises like push-ups, pull-ups, chin-ups, lunges, and squats to increase strength and build muscle.
Most weighted vests are not unlike military body armor.
They keep the weight close to your body, so you won’t have to modify your movements much, if at all.
A good weighted pack moves as you move, and doesn’t jiggle or shift around during your training.
Most are adjustable – both in terms of size and weight.
What to Look for When Buying A Weighted Vest
There are many different weighted vests available, and some are better than others, so these are the features to look for in a great weight pack:
#1. Maximum weight
The best weighted fitness packs are adjustable, so your workouts can be progressive, that is, you can add weight as you get fitter or stronger.
However, the maximum weight varies from model to model.
For example, some are designed to hold as little as 10lbs, while others go up to 50lbs, 80lbs, or 100lbs or more.
It’s generally best to buy a heavier pack than you think you’ll need.
That way, you can “grow into it” as you get stronger.
If you buy a light vest, you may find that, within a few months, you need a new one as your current model is no longer heavy enough.
So, look for weighted fitness gear that has a decent top-end weight capacity.
Start off light but then gradually add weight week by week to ensure that your workouts are productive.
40-50lbs is a good weight vest size for most exercisers.
#2. Size and adjustability
Some weighted vests come in set sizes (small, medium, large, etc.), while others are one-size and can be adjusted.
Make sure your pack fits you correctly and that you can fine-tune the fit (usually using Velcro straps or a lacing system) to ensure that it’s comfortable and won’t move around while you are exercising.
For example, an ill-fitting weighted vest will sag down toward the floor when you do push-ups, rollouts, or planks, which can be distracting and uncomfortable.
Remember, too, that weighted vests come in different lengths, and a long pack could stop you from doing squats, lunges, etc.
Short packs tend to allow for freer movement and are also cooler.
So, if possible, try before you buy or make sure you can return your vest if it doesn’t fit correctly.
#3. Materials and construction
Weighted vests are made for regular use, but some are more hardwearing than others.
Lightweight materials like polyester and nylon are cheap and flexible but are also prone to wear and tear.
More rugged weighted vests are made from tougher materials like CORDURA, and while they’re more expensive, they will stand up to more abuse.
If you plan on using your fitness pack occasionally and mostly indoors, a cheaper, lightly constructed vest should suffice.
But, if you mean to use your weight pack every day or treat it more roughly, you’ll save money in the long run by buying something sturdier.
#4. Weights
The weights in weighted vests vary from small metal ingots to packets of iron filings or sand to metal or ceramic plates.
Each affects the fit and feel of your vest.
Metal ingots are rigid but compact, so they give your vest a slimmer profile.
Iron filings are cheap but bulky, so they may make some exercises harder to do or reduce your mobility.
Metal and ceramic plates are expensive but are molded to the shape of your body, making this kind of vest very streamlined and less obtrusive.
However, they’re also less adjustable.
All of these types of weighted fitness gear will make any bodyweight workout more effective but each one feels different on your body.
Consider what you want from your weighted vest and choose the type of weight that best suits your workout needs and budget.
Also, consider the weight denominations of your vest.
Ideally, you should be able to adjust the load in small increments, that is, one pound at a time.
Small increases are generally best, as a little weight goes a long way!
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5 Best Weighted Vests Reviewed in 2025
While you could just carry on doing regular bodyweight exercises, you’ll probably get better results if you use a weighted pack to make your workouts more progressive.
Not sure which weighted vest is best for your workouts?
While I haven’t personally tested every vest on this list, my picks are based on extensive product research and verified buyer reviews — curated to help you train harder, smarter, and safer.
#1. CAP Barbell 50lb Adjustable Weighted Vest
CAP Barbell makes good-value training equipment.
This weighted pack is constructed from lightweight nylon and polyester and has reinforced seams and stress points.
It’s adjustable so you can make sure it’s snug and secure, and it has 16 pockets so you can adjust and position the two and four-pound weight packs as needed.
This is an excellent budget-friendly vest that’s also available in 20, 40, 60, 70, 80, 100, and 150 pounds.
Check the current price on Amazon for the CAP Barbell 50lb Adjustable Weighted Vest.
#2. Hyperwear Hyper Vest PRO Weighted Vest
Some weighted fitness packs are very big and bulky.
This may be a problem if you want unrestricted movement or wear your vest for sports or things like running, sprinting, or agility training.
The Hyperwear Hyper Vest Pro uses a lacing system and low-profile high-density weights for a much slimmer profile and snug fit, so you can almost forget you’re wearing it.
This pack is available in small, medium, large, and extra-large, which refers to both the size of the vest and its maximum weight capacity.
Each weighted fitness pack is supplied with 10lbs of weights, and more are available.
- Small – 20lbs
- Medium – 23lbs
- Large – 33lbs
- Extra-large – 42lbs
This Hyperwear model is comfortable for both walking and running – with little bounce, if at all.
As an added bonus, they have excellent customer support.
Check the current price on Amazon for the Hyperwear Hyper Vest PRO Weighted Vest.
Walking and climbing with Hyperwear
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#3. Empower Weighted Vest for Women
This X-shaped vest is designed specifically for the female form and is padded for extra comfort.
While most weighted vests are designed to be unisex, what is comfortable for men may not be comfortable for women.
As well as being fully adjustable, this weight vest has reflective strips for safer nighttime workouts, weighs 16lbs, and uses one-pound increments.
It’s designed to be close-fitting, so it’s ideal for cardio workouts as well as strength training.
The shape of this Empower Weighted Vest for Women also means that overheating should be less of an issue than with other designs.
Check the current price on Amazon for the Empower Weighted Vest for Women
Empower Weight Pack Review
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#4. Spartan Shadow 20lb Weighted Vest with Weight Plates
Instead of the usual metal ingots or bags of iron filings, this weight vest uses contoured metal plates.
Totaling 20lbs, this pack fits snugly and won’t move much, even during the most energetic workouts.
The vest is highly adjustable and also has MOLLE attachment points so you can add extra pouches and pockets, for example, for a water bottle, phone holder, etc.
But, on the downside, with only two plates, this vest is not as adjustable as the others in this review.
While you can buy lighter or heavier plates, they can be expensive.
That said, if you want a set-weight vest for CrossFit, tactical, or military training, this model weight vest from Spartan Shadow is a good option.
Check the current price on Amazon for the Spartan Shadow Weighted Vest with Weight Plates.
#5. miR Air Flow Weighted Vest with Zipper
Most weighted fitness gear slips over your head like a tabard and is secured with a Velcro waist strap.
This model from miR has a zip opening, so you wear it on like a jacket.
Once you’ve adjusted the sides, that means you can put your weighted vest on quickly and easily, and the fit will always be the same.
Additionally, this vest is quite a bit shorter than some of the others on review, so it should be cooler and less restrictive.
You could even wear it for core exercises, like sit-ups and crunches.
This weighted vest is available with 20, 30, 40, and 50lb maximum weights.
Still, the 50lb miR Air Flow model weight vest is arguably the best value for money and should provide many years of reliable use.
Check the current price on Amazon for the miR Air Flow Weighted Vest with Zipper.
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#6. Rogue Echo Weight Vest
If you’re looking for a serious weight vest that can handle your toughest workouts, the Rogue Echo Weight Vest is a strong contender.
Built from durable material with adjustable straps, it’s designed to stay put whether you’re doing push-ups, hill sprints, or box jumps.
The back panel and waist straps provide a secure fit, so the weight doesn’t shift during training.
You can load it with up to 20lbs of steel plate weights, making this a great choice for anyone looking to add extra resistance and follow recommended strength training guidelines without compromising comfort.
The Echo is also compatible with the Rogue Plate Carrier, giving you options depending on your workout style and preferences.
Whether you’re into bodyweight circuits or rucking long distances, this vest delivers adjustable weight vest performance in a minimalist package.
It’s not the most expensive option out there, but it holds its own in build quality and performance.
And if you’re committed to your fitness routine for the long term, this vest’s construction is built to go the distance.
Check the current price on Rogue Fitness for the Rogue Echo Weight Vest.
#7. Kensui EZ-VEST® V2
The Kensui EZ-VEST® V2 isn’t your typical weighted vest — it’s one of the most versatile designs on the market for adding serious additional resistance.
Instead of pre-loaded weights, this vest uses standard or Olympic plates via the included kensui plate adapters.
That means you can increase the individual weight one plate at a time — ideal for anyone who wants precision and flexibility in their workouts.
This is one of the few models that functions like a micro-loaded vest, giving you total control over your weight load.
It’s especially effective for pull-ups, dips, and other upper body exercises where dialing in the exact weight matters.
With its secure fit and minimal bounce, this vest is a solid choice.
Just note that it’s a more advanced system — best suited for intermediate to experienced athletes looking for a different option than traditional vests.
Check the current price on Kensui Fitness for the Kensui EZ-VEST® V2.
#8. Hyper Vest FIT Weighted Vest for Women
If you’re looking for a lightweight vest designed specifically for women, the Hyper Vest FIT Weighted Vest is a solid pick.
This vest has a contoured design with a cropped silhouette that fits better on the female body, especially for shorter torsos.
It’s great for all-around use—perfect for walking, strength training, or adding a bit of extra weight to your daily routine.
The construction uses breathable materials, which helps keep you cool during workouts.
It’s less bulky than traditional vests but still provides room for adjustable weights in one-pound increments so you can progress gradually.
If your goal is to improve endurance, increase bone strength, or get a little bit of an edge during cardio, this vest is a good choice without being overwhelming or restrictive.
Check the current price on Amazon for the Hyper Vest FIT Weighted Vest for Women.
Best Weighted Vests – Wrapping Up
Just because you LOVE bodyweight exercises like push-ups, pull-ups, and air squats doesn’t mean you are limited to training with just your body weight!
Wearing a weighted vest will add a new dimension to your bodyweight workouts, making them more challenging, time-effective, and productive.
You can also wear a weighted vest to make your cardio workouts more rewarding, burning more calories and getting fitter in the process.
With so many weighted vests on the market, it can be tough to know which one to buy, but any of the five mentioned in this review is an excellent place to start.
Remember, though, that a little weight goes a long way, so don’t go too heavy, too soon.
Five to ten percent of your body weight should be sufficient initially, but you should be able to increase by a pound or two per week as you get stronger.
What’s Next
Discover the incredible benefits of wearing weighted fitness gear, some of the best weight vest exercises, & five great weight vest workouts to try out in this next article:
