Ready to supercharge your workouts and take your fitness journey to the next level? If you’re looking to add some serious intensity and challenge to your training, a weighted vest might just be your new best friend. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete aiming to boost your strength and endurance, or someone looking to make bodyweight exercises more effective, the added resistance of a weighted vest can unlock a whole new level of gains.
But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right one? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! We’ve scoured Amazon and put ten of the top-rated weighted vests through their paces to bring you this comprehensive guide. We’ll dive into what makes each one stand out, share our honest impressions, and help you find the perfect weighted vest to meet your fitness goals. Let’s get started!
10. CAP Barbell 50 lb Weighted Vest
I picked up the CAP Barbell 50 lb vest because I wanted a no-frills option to add extra resistance to my runs and bodyweight circuits. My initial impression was that it felt pretty solid and the weight distribution seemed even. After a few weeks of use, I found it stayed put during high-impact movements, which was a big plus. The only real downside is that it can feel a bit bulky and the shoulder padding, while present, could be a little more generous for longer wear. Overall, it does exactly what it promises without any unnecessary bells and whistles, and I’d recommend it if you’re looking for a straightforward, durable option.
9. Hyperwear Hyper Vest FIT Weighted Vest
I was drawn to the Hyper Vest FIT for its sleek design and the promise of a more comfortable, less bulky experience. Out of the box, it felt lightweight and the adjustability was impressive. During workouts, I was really pleased with how secure it felt – no bouncing or shifting, even during plyometrics. The only minor gripe I have is that the price point is a bit higher than some other options, and while it’s comfortable, it’s not perfectly breathable in very hot conditions. I’d definitely recommend this vest if comfort and a close fit are top priorities for you, and you’re willing to invest a little more.
8. J M K Premium Weighted Vest
I decided to try the J M K Premium Weighted Vest because it offered a good range of weight adjustment and seemed like a versatile choice for various exercises. My first impression was that it felt well-constructed, and I liked the fact that the weight pockets were clearly defined. After using it for a while, I found it to be quite comfortable, and the adjustability allowed me to tailor the resistance perfectly for different workouts, from squats to walking. The only con I’d mention is that the Velcro closure, while strong, can make a rather loud noise when adjusting during quiet gyms. Still, for its versatility and comfort, I’d recommend it.
7. ZELUS Weighted Vest 20lbs
I purchased the ZELUS 20lb vest as I was looking for a manageable entry-level option to get started with weighted training. My initial thoughts were that it felt surprisingly well-made for the price, and the padding was a nice touch. After using it for a few weeks, I found it stayed in place reasonably well during my cardio sessions and added a good challenge to my bodyweight exercises. The main drawback is that the 20lb capacity is fixed, so there’s no room to increase the weight without buying a new vest. However, for beginners or those wanting a fixed, moderate weight, it’s a solid and affordable choice that I would recommend.
6. Aduro Sport Weighted Vest 20 lbs
I opted for the Aduro Sport 20 lb vest because I wanted a comfortable and simple vest for adding a bit more intensity to my walks and light jogging. My first impression was that it felt quite soft and the neoprene material made it comfortable against the skin. After some use, I found it stayed put and really made my cardio sessions more challenging without feeling overly restrictive. The biggest con is that, like the ZELUS, the weight is fixed at 20 lbs, limiting future progression on the same vest. If you’re looking for a comfortable, easy-to-wear vest for moderate weight training, this is a great option I’d recommend.
5. MIRITY Weighted Vest for Men and Women
I chose the MIRITY vest because it offered a wide range of weight options and looked like it could handle some serious workouts. Upon arrival, it had a robust feel to it, and the multiple weight pockets were clearly designed for easy loading and unloading. During use, I found it to be very secure, distributing the weight evenly across my shoulders and chest, which made it comfortable even for longer wear. The only slight negative is that the overall profile can be a bit bulky, especially when loaded up. But for its durability and excellent weight adjustability, I’d definitely recommend this vest to anyone serious about progressive overload.
4. GoFitness Weighted Vest 20 lbs
I picked up the GoFitness 20 lb vest for its no-nonsense design and the promise of a comfortable fit for my running routine. My initial impression was that it felt well-made and the weight was evenly distributed with the included included weight packs. After wearing it for my runs, I was impressed with how little it moved around, even on more vigorous routes. The main con is that, once again, the weight is fixed at 20 lbs, which might be a limitation if you find yourself wanting to increase your load significantly. Nevertheless, for anyone looking for a straightforward, secure 20 lb vest for cardio, this is a good buy that I would recommend.
3. TRASE Weighted Vest 20LB
I decided to give the TRASE 20LB weighted vest a try as I was looking for a comfortable and secure option for my bodyweight training. My first impression was that the material felt durable and the design seemed to hug the body well. After a few weeks of incorporating it into my workouts, I found it stayed put and added just the right amount of challenge to my squats, push-ups, and lunges. The primary con here is the fixed 20lb weight, which means you’ll need a new vest if you want to progress further. However, for a comfortable and stable 20lb addition to your routine, I can certainly recommend this one.
2. TRASE Weighted Vest 12LB
I chose the TRASE 12LB vest because I wanted something lighter to start with, focusing on improving my posture and adding subtle resistance to my daily walks. My initial impression was that it felt very lightweight and the adjustable straps made it easy to get a snug but comfortable fit. After using it for a while, I found it really helped engage my core and made my walks more purposeful without being overwhelming. The only downside is that 12lbs is on the lower end, so it might not offer enough challenge for more advanced users. But for those starting out or looking for a lighter option, I’d highly recommend this comfortable and easy-to-wear vest.
1. Hyperwear Hyper Vest PRO Weighted Vest
The Hyper Vest PRO was my top pick because I wanted the ultimate in adjustability and comfort for intense, long training sessions. My initial reaction was how premium it felt – the materials were top-notch, and it was incredibly easy to adjust the weight distribution with the individual weight inserts. In practice, it’s been a game-changer. It feels like a second skin, stays put no matter the movement, and the breathability is excellent. The only real “con” is the significant investment it represents. However, if you’re serious about weighted training and want a vest that can grow with you and offer unmatched comfort and performance, the Hyper Vest PRO is absolutely worth every penny, and I can’t recommend it enough.
So there you have it – our top 10 picks for weighted vests available on Amazon this year! As you can see, there’s a fantastic range of options, from super affordable entry-level vests to premium, fully adjustable models. The “best” one for you will really depend on your specific fitness goals, your current training level, and what you prioritize most – be it comfort, adjustability, or budget.
We hope this detailed review has given you a clearer picture of what’s out there and helped you narrow down your choices. Remember, adding a weighted vest to your routine is a great way to build strength, improve cardiovascular health, and push your limits. Happy training, and we hope one of these vests helps you crush your fitness goals.