The weighted vest is a very handy piece of gear that add anyone can benefit from. Whether you want to improve your endurance and fitness, lose weight, add more weight to pull-ups, push-ups, and dips, or strengthen your bones, it’s worth considering including one in your training gear arsenal.
We’ve reviewed the best women’s weighted vest options on the market and explained the features in detail.
Top Quality Women’s Weighted Vests Ranked:
- Empower Weighted Vest – Buy here Editor’s Choice
- MiR Weighted Vest – Buy here
- Aduro Weighted Vest – Buy here
- Hyperwear Hyper Vest – Buy here
- Bear KompleX Weighted Vest – Buy here
- Zelus Weighted Vest – Buy here
- Prodigen Weighted Vest – Buy here
- Henkelion Weighted Vest – Buy here
1. Editor’s Pick – Empower Weighted Vest
Most women should appreciate the X-shape design of this weighted vest as there are many features that add to the comfort and function.
It’s simple in design and made with soft, stretchable neoprene fabric and padded shoulders. This allows you to move around and change positions for lengthy periods and still maintain performance without discomfort.
You also get reflective safety strips for when training in low light.
The side straps are adjustable for 24-48 inch waist sizes.
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The adjustable weighted vest is filled with iron sand and you can choose from a fixed 8-pound or 16 lbs (adjustable) resistance that allows you to use 10, 12, 14, and 16 lbs of resistance with a quick change out.
Pros
- Adjustable weight version (16-pound option)
- Vests are adjustable for different size people
- X-shape designed for women’s curves
- Padded shoulders for comfort
- Minimalist design
- Reflective strips make you more visible in low light environments
Cons
- Few complaints about material wear and breakage
- 8-pound version not weight adjustable
About The Brand
Empower is a women’s brand owned by Donna and Mike Savage that offers quality, affordable, fun, and quirky products for everyday women.
“We saw a real gap between the idealized woman and the woman who works, the woman who has a family and the woman who juggles everything. You know, a REAL woman.”
The Hummingbird logo represents what the brand is all about.
“The spirit of Empower lies within the Hummingbird. She’s resilient and powerful, joyful and beautiful, playful, independent and strong. The hummingbird may be tiny but she’s mighty and she never gives up.
So don’t let this tiny bird fool you!”
2. MiR Weighted Vest
If you think you’re ready to step up your game and are at a more advanced level in your fitness journey, then look no further.
The MiR weighted vest is a beast with 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 lb options. Having 30 or more pounds strapped on your body will help you to burn more calories, increase your strength performance, and really overload your muscles for increased gains.
But it’s important to note that the vest is going to be a bit more substantial than the previous options. We really like that you can adjust the weight plates too by simply adding or removing them from the vest pockets.
It’s built to maximize comfort, durability, and functionality. We highly recommend this vest for anyone.
Pros
- Holds up to 50 lbs (heaviest option)
- Uses brick weights
- Weight adjustable
- Vest is adjustable for different users
- Very high-quality design and functionality
Cons
- Few complaints about adjustability straps
- Not the simplest to put on and take off
- May be a little bulky for some users
About The Brand
“Serving our clients for over 10 years, it has taught us that the only way to survive in our industry is to put our customers before our profits. Our success is solely dependent on our ability to make you happy with our products, which is why we offer a lifetime service warranty on all of our products. Mir Vest is in the customer service business first, and in the weight vest business second. All our products are designed with you in mind with highest quality premium materials on the market.”
3. Aduro Weighted Vest
A favorite choice for weighted vest users, Aduro makes a top-notch option and offers a few different versions.
Choose from 4, 6, 12, 16, 20, 25, and 30 lbs.
The shoulders are padded for optimal comfort, and the breathable neoprene is lightweight with equally distributed iron filling for the best possible experience during your choice of activities.
The buckle fastens the vest and you also get a mesh pocket to hold your belongings while you workout.
Pros
- Various weight options for different experience levels or preferred uses
- Lightweight and breathable
- Padded shoulders for comfort
- Mesh pocket included for item storage
Cons
- No weight adjustable option
- Few complaints about filling spilling out
- Few issues with the condition upon receiving the weighted vest
About The Brand
“Aduro Products is the brain child of three industry veterans who wanted to create some excitement in the electronics accessories industry. Here at Aduro, we are always on the hunt for the latest and greatest in tech accessories. Our goal is not to follow but to lead through innovation and style. Our product lines are comprised of not only unique and sometime patented tech but also with a style and flair that keep things fun and modern. Our family of product is ever growing so keep checking back here for what’s hot!“
4. Hyperwear Hyper Vest
What we really like about the many weighted vests on this list is that there are many different designs that offer something for everyone.
The Hyperwear weighted vest is no exception with a full zipper close design and adjustable side lacing to ensure the most snug and comfortable fit possible.
The material is Cordura and a polyester, lyrca blend for optimum ruggedness and resiliency.
The aesthetics are on point and while it fits close to the body without the bulk, this vest is best for those looking to add anywhere from 5-10 lbs. So it’s not going to add lots of weight. The fabric also has reflective material for low light sessions.
The vest is offered in small, medium, and large sizes. Therefore, this is not a one-size-fits-all weighted vest.
The weights are 1/2 pound containers filled with USA steel pellets.
This vest is a great buy!
Pros
- Comes in different sizes (no one-size-fits-all) for the most accurate fit
- Comfortable and functional full zipper and lace closure system
- lightweight and breathable
- Many love the nice and snug fit
- 1/2 pound weights easily adjustable from 1 to 10 lbs
- Sleek and slim appearance
- Reflective elements great for training in low light areas
Cons
- Only goes up to 10 lbs
About The Brand
Hyperwear is for innovation and functionality. Their products are meant to be used during the most environmentally diverse situations because, according to the brand “We don’t exist in a static environment, so neither should our training.”
5. Bear KompleX Weighted Vest
Bear KompleX weighted vest is the best option for hardcore individuals.
Although, it’s important to note that this recommendation is just for the vest and you’ll need to purchase the weights separately. But the vest does fit Rogue and SAPI plates and plates are easy to find.
It’s a military-grade vest made with 5000 Cordura® nylon and it has easily adjustable side straps for different size individuals (up to 50 inches circumference), adjustable shoulder straps, and steel alloy quick release buckles.
The water-resistant coating is a welcome feature as no one wants to be drenched during their activities.
We also really dig the color options.
Pros
- Military-grade vest
- Super durable material
- Adjustable side straps
- Water-resistant
- Steel alloy quick-release buckles make for a stronger fit and function
Cons
- A little pricey and doesn’t include weights
- Few complaints about weight of vest for CrossFit activity standards
About The Brand
It all started for Bear KompleX back in 2015 when the brand worked with top CrossFit athletes and developed some of the best grips the market had/has to offer.
The aim of the company was to “assist CrossFit and functional fitness athletes in attaining the maximum level of performance, whether training or competing.“
They’ve since done a phenomenal job and have created a line of high-quality performance products.
6. Zelus Weighted Vest
The Zelus brand weighted vest has similar features to a few of the other picks and more.
The material is soft, lightweight, and breathable neoprene. Elastic straps allow for adjustability, reflective tapes increase your visibility during the early morning or late evening, and the detachable front pocket is super convenient. Plus, there’s a rear mesh pocket to keep more things.
The vest is stuffed with chemical-free iron pellets. It has padded shoulder straps and is ridiculously secure. This model comes in only one size and has adjustable straps on the sides.
You can choose from various poundages (4, 6, 8, 12, 16, and 20 lbs) depending on your level of fitness or your preference.
Pros
- Different weight vest options
- Reflective tapes improve safety in the dark
- Detachable pocket makes it much more convenient to take out your valuables
- The rear mesh pocket offers another storage option
- Breathable, lightweight, and comfortable
Cons
- Few complaints about slightly loosening up during certain activities
- Few complaints about vest quality
About The Brand
Zelus supplies great quality, affordable products, and its mission is to “Empower people of all fitness levels to live a healthier lifestyle by providing quality products at affordable prices.”
“We’re evolving with changing workout trends driven by consumers like you – to help you train safely with our multifunctional home exercise equipment.”
7. Prodigen Weighted Vest
Prodigen weighted vest has an H-shape design with dual fastener buckles so that the vest stays put whether you’re doing bodyweight training/ workouts, running, hiking, or other demanding activities.
The shoulders are padded and the convenient pocket is a viable storage option. The material is breathable and should hold up for many exercise sessions.
The vest features padded shoulder straps and a fully adjustable waist belt for a secure and snug fit.
It also has reflective strips like the many options in this review of best women’s weighted vests.
The vest uses premium iron filler too and no cheap sand for added weight.
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Choose from 8, 12, 16, 20, 25, and 30 lbs vests and you also get to pick from a few different color options.
Pros
- Dual fastener buckles offer more security
- Padded shoulders
- Has a storage pocket to keep valuables
- Reflective strips
- Multiple weight options
Cons
- No weight adjustable option
- Not the best option for rapid changes in moving or fast-paced activities as there are some complaints about it bouncing up
About The Brand
Prodigen is a brand that offers home and fitness products at a reasonable value.
8. Henkelion Weighted Vest
Another solid choice in the category of best women weighted vests is one from the brand Henkelion.
We like this one for many reasons including its aesthetics and ergonomic design.
The vest is made from neoprene material that ensures comfort and movability. This one also has reflective safety strips for night activities, and the adjustable buckle allows for various users to get a great workout or simply add more resistance to their daily activities.
Henkelion’s running vest distributes weight across your back and shoulders, while padded straps help keep you comfortable. A mesh pocket in the back allows you to add extra weight—or store your stuff while you log miles.
One feature that many will be happy about is the mesh pocket that you can use to store your stuff if you don’t have pockets or feel more comfortable storing it on your vest.
The vest is filled with quality iron pellets.
You also have a few snazzy colors to choose from to add a little style to your training.
One big advantage of going with a vest like this one is that there are several weight options to choose from including 4, 6, 8, 12, 16, and 20 lbs.
Some people will only need something to add a little extra resistance while going up to 20 lbs can really challenge you during various activities.
Pros
- Adjustable buckle allows various users to benefit from weighted vest
- Mesh pocket is great for storing stuff
- Reflective strips allow for visibility in dark environments
- Choose from various weights
Cons
- No weight adjustable options
- Few complaints of vest bouncing or riding up during activities/ a little loose fitting for some users
- Some mentioned an off smell
About The Brand
Henkelion is a fitness brand that offers gear to help anyone get and stay fit.
Benefits of Using a Weighted Vest
A weighted vest is a very handy tool because whether you’re doing push-ups, pull-ups, CrossFit type workouts, running, hiking, or anything similar, it allows you to increase the difficulty easily and conveniently.
Consequently, you’ll become a more physically fit and capable version of yourself if training with the right program structure.
You really can’t do a lot of activities or exercises while holding dumbbells, balancing a barbell, or carrying other types of weights. While a backpack may be a better option, it’s not always ideal either because the weight typically shifts around and is not equally distributed from front to back, causing you to have to overcompensate in either direction during certain activities.
Weighted vests are made to conform to your body and not get in the way when you are taking on the task ahead. That’s why athletes use weighted vests. Their adjustable design should remain secure to your body during activities that require changing your body position.
Performance improvements
One study using male volunteers found that wearing a weighted vest can slightly improve agility performance. In a study on runners, wearing a weighted vest was shown to increase speed by 2.9 percent. (1)
May prevent bone loss
But wearing a weighted vest may also be very beneficial for older adults too. In a 5-year program, using a weighted vest significantly prevented bone loss in older postmenopausal women. When tested for potential balance improvement in postmenopausal women, the weighted vest also enhanced this factor. (2, 3)
Burn more calories
But according to an article published by the American Council on Exercise (ACE), wearing a weighted vest during walking can also increase the number of calories burned and VO2 (oxygen consumption), more so than walking without a vest.
This was determined during an ACE-sponsored study that had 13 untrained women walk on a treadmill where the vest was added to see if there was a difference in several factors associated with physical activity.
The addition of the weight allows individuals to train harder without having to increase their speed.
How To Choose A Weight Vest
The vests we’ve chosen for our review are all great options but this will definitely depend on the individual or experience level, activities that you’ll be engaging in, and budget, of course.
Now, many weighted vests are versatile which means you can easily change how much the vest weighs. But some only come with a fixed amount of weight and these are great too.
But like anything else, if you’re new to using a weighted vest, start small and work your way up.
If you’re at an intermediate or even advanced level of fitness then you’re likely aware of how much weight is ideal for you.
For resistance training and cardio workout routine, you’ll want to be able to challenge yourself by using a level of resistance that will allow you to approach training failure much faster.
For endurance, using less weight is better, especially since you’re not used to carrying additional weight around on a daily basis and it’ll weigh you down real fast. But, of course, if you’re more fit than the average person, then feel free to take on the challenge for a tough workout session or fortitude-building trek through the woods.
Since we’ve included the best women’s weighted vests though, you’re probably wondering what the difference is compared to a men’s weighted vest.
Women’s weighted vest
There are various weighted vest designs but some are more ideal for the female figure. That means they’re typically less restrictive in the chest area and the great thing about many of these options is that you can adjust them and the extra weight to your size.
You can use the adjustable straps to secure the vest to your torso and ensure that it won’t be too loose and cause bouncing (an annoyance) or tight and cause a lot of discomfort.
If you prefer to choose a vest that comes in a few different sizes for a possibly more accurate and tailored fit, the Hyperwear vest is the perfect option.
Overall, women can still use men’s vests but ones that are designed for women’s bodies may offer the best comfort and fit.
Material
As for the material, weighted vests are typically made using neoprene, nylon, and polyester. The material does play a role in the comfort, functionality, and durability of a vest but you cannot go wrong with any of the picks on our list, especially since budget is a big factor for many.
But if you’re going to be training outdoors or in extreme heat, the cordura and nylon material should stand up best to the elements.
But any option from a good brand should last you many workouts although you pay more for a premium option which is the case with many things.
Adjustable Weights / Extra Weight
Typically, weighted vests use iron pellets, steel plates, or sand.
The drawback to iron pellets and sand is that sometimes they can spill out depending on the quality of the vest material.
But they’re also typically cheaper.
Weight plates are ideal if you have the budget because there’s less shifting around and the material is often built stronger to support the plates.
Overall your budget and use will determine the type of weights you opt for.
Closure system
Buckles, zippers, velcro, and laces are the most common closure mechanisms used for these weighted vests.
All are great options and very secure but it really comes down to personal preference.
Other features
Most of the weighted vests come with reflective strips for safety in low-light situations. While it may not be entirely necessary, it’s a good feature that can certainly come in handy depending on where and when you wear it.
Pockets are another useful feature for storing your valuables such as your phone, earbuds, snacks, and more.
How Heavy Should My Vest Be?
We are all different, although, it’s safe to say that, on average, women will typically do better with less weight than men.
The great thing about many of the vests included in this review is that they range from 4 all the way up to 50 lbs.
But again, and as we explained before, you and your goals will determine how heavy the vest is. There’s really no perfect answer to this question.
While some women will only use the vest for light activities, others may be training for something specific and need the heaviest vest for their training to be beneficial and progressive.
Check out our bodyweight workout articles for some of the best body weight training plans and ideas that are great with a weighted vest.
Choose The Right Vest For Your Goals
While there are many options on the market, we believe these are among the best women’s weighted vests that you can choose from right now.
If you took the time to look through the various ones, you’ll have noticed that they have unique features and there’s something for everyone. Whether you want to burn more calories, improve your endurance or take your resistance training to the next level, these are top-notch weight vests.
Also check out the10 Best Weighted Vests To Up Your Training Intensity (Reviewed 2024).
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