Best Weight Vests for Running

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
CAP Barbell Adjustable
Test Winner: CAP Barbell Adjustable
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Running can be a great way to both get in shape and stay in shape. However, when you are ready to take your running exercises to the next level, you should consider purchasing a weight vest to help you train even harder as you run. Running weight vests provide the opportunity for you to strength train while you get your cardio in hitting the trails or the roads. So while you are running you can not only hit your leg and core muscle groups but also train your upper body. Now if you have been running for quite a while and want to move to the next level for your cardio, check out a weighted vest. To help you find the best weight vest for you and your training style, we have done the research and created a list of the top ten best weight vests on the market today.

Standout Picks

Hyperwear Hyper Vest PRO Unisex
Hyperwear’s Hyper Vest Pro offers you a unique vest that is made for both men and women, features a nice ventilation system and is made with comfort in mind. It’s a very breathable vest, and you won’t have to worry about feeling like you are drowning in your own sweat or overheating as you complete your workouts. You also don’t have to insert the weights with this vest, since it comes ready to go. You’ll get a lot of flexibility and freedom of movement as well with this great vest.
Amazon Link
$209.99
ZFOsports 40LBs Adjustable
ZFOsports created their 40LBs Adjustable Weighted Vest for people who want a heavier vest when training on their runs. One nice feature about purchasing this vest is that it comes with the weights already inside the vest, and you get the total of forty pounds once the product arrives. You can remove the weights as you see fit, and adjust the vest in 2.5 pound increments. Plus, this vest is also made for both men and women, and does a good job of staying in place during your runs.
Amazon Link
CAP Barbell Adjustable
CAP’s Barbell Adjustable Weighted Vest works great for runners who want a wide, heavier weight range to work out with while they are on the go. You can select from between forty to one hundred and fifty pounds with this vest, and also easily adjust the weight amounts. This vest is also padded and comfortable, and features a nice ventilation system. You also get a nice pocket to hold your phone and listen to music, and some reflective safety strips.
Amazon Link
$70.24
Cross 101 Adjustable
The Cross 101 Adjustable Weighted Vest offers you an innovative design if you want to carry more weight and start your running off with up to forty pounds on you. The vest allows for increments of four pounds as you build yourself up and personalize your runs the way you want them. Also, this vest features a nice belt and a lot of adjustability options to give you a great fit. This vest also adds a nice bonus feature with it since the weights are included when you purchase the vest, and that makes this an affordable option.
Amazon Link
$69.99
MiR Adjustable Weighted Vest
The MiR Adjustable Weighted Vest is designed to give you plenty of flexibility and mobility each time you decide to run with it on. It is a shorter vest which means it doesn’t impede your movements, and it is very adjustable so that you’ll always get the perfect fit. You can also purchase the vest in different weight amounts that vary from twenty to sixty pounds. With the vest, the weights are included with your purchase, so that makes this a nice choice. The weights can be added in three pound increments so you can more easily customize your work outs and runs.
Amazon Link
$199.99
Empower Weighted Vest
Empower’s Weighted Vest is designed to fit women, and works great to strength train as you are running. You get a well-designed vest that is made from durable neoprene that helps make the vest long lasting and also very comfortable. Also, the weights in this vest can be placed so you have equal weight distribution and great balance on your runs. Also, this vest features an innovative X-shape design that makes it easy to adjust for a great fit.
Amazon Link
$49.95
RUNFast Max Pro Weighted Vest
The RUNFast/Max Pro Weighted Vest offers a unique design, and lets you strap on the weights with ease instead of placing the weights into pockets that can be difficult to use. This vest goes in increments from twelve pounds to sixty pounds, and can be used to boost your runs and give you a more effective workout. You can purchase this vest with or without shoulder pads, although we suggest you get the shoulder pads because they really do increase your comfort level.
Amazon Link
$169.99
Tone Fitness
This vest is sleek and fits great. It is made from a neoprene material so it feels good against your skin or clothes and feels comfortable. If you are an avid night runner, this vest also has you covered as it has reflective strips to make you visible during the night. Definitely a vest to check out.
Amazon Link
$27.49
ZELUS
This vest is definitely one to check out if you are looking to take your running to the next level. A sleek design and comfortable fit makes this weighted vest one of the top vests on the market.
Amazon Link
Valeo Pound
If you are looking for a vest that not only is adjustable but also has storage for your phone or MP3 player than this is the vest for you. Made to last and provide a great upper body workout the Valeo will not disappoint.
Amazon Link

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Comfort

How comfortable your weight vest for running feels each time you hit the trails or pavement is probably the most important feature for you to evaluate. If the vest doesn’t fit well or feel comfortable, you probably won’t use it much. Make sure you get the padding and adjustability you really need to feel great as you run. Also, make sure you purchase a vest that has a good ventilation system so you won’t need to worry about overheating. A shorter design helps give you more mobility as you move, so you get a lot of flexibility and comfort with that. These vests are also designed to give you a lot of ventilation, so they breathe very well and helps keep you cooled down as you run. You also get the ability to adjust most vest easily to get the perfect fit and a lot of padding for maximum comfort.

Features

These vests come with a number of features depending on the brand you buy. Some vests come with the weights already in the vest, and sometimes you have to buy them separately. Some vests also require that you buy padding separately, while others come with all the padding you need. You’ll also find vests with pockets and other features, like the ability to carry water bottles or hydration packs, as well as reflectivity features. Many vests offer a bevy of features that make them an excellent choice. One great feature to look out for is the ability to throw it in your washing machine and dry it, and that helps you easily keep it clean. These vests are also very breathable, and that’s a great bonus. You can also look into getting weights included with the vest and a nice Velcro belt that can help you make adjustments more easily.

Durability

All of the products on our list here are designed with durability in mind. It is always a great idea to get a durable product because it will last you for a long time, and you’ll get ample amounts of use with it. The materials of the vest determine a lot about the vest’s durability, so make sure you check those out. These vests are designed by manufacturers that are well-known for making high-quality and durable products. You also get a durable outer shell that can resist abrasions, tears and scratches with ease if you run with it on the trails. You can also get a vest that you can easily maintain by washing it easily, which adds to the durability. So, you won’t need to worry about replacing this vest for some time.

Value

If you are shopping on a budget, value becomes important. We always want to get the most out of our money. For all of our products, we covered their specific value points including price as well as durability. We also reviewed satisfaction guarantees and warranties. Depending on what type of weight you want to hold with your vest, the price of these vests can vary. The heavier weight options tend to cost more, but since you get a lifetime guarantee they are well worth the price. Plus, you’ll get a vest with a durable design that you’ll be able to keep and use for quite some time.

Top 10 Picks

1. Hyperwear Hyper Vest PRO Unisex

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$209.99
Hyperwear Hyper Vest PRO Unisex
Amazon Link

Hyperwear’s Hyper Vest Pro offers you a unique vest that is made for both men and women, features a nice ventilation system and is made with comfort in mind. It’s a very breathable vest, and you won’t have to worry about feeling like you are drowning in your own sweat or overheating as you complete your workouts. You also don’t have to insert the weights with this vest, since it comes ready to go. You’ll get a lot of flexibility and freedom of movement as well with this great vest.

Read more

Comfort:

The Hyper Vest Pro offers a lot of options that demonstrate this vest is really made for comfort. First, you get a vest that allows you to move well, is flexible, and will stay with you. You also get a lot of great padding with this vest, preventing any irritations like rubbing or chaffing. It is very adjustable so you will get the perfect fit and the right amount of comfort. Also, this vest is very breathable and comes with moisture-wicking fabric that ventilates well.

Features:

The Hyper Vest Pro comes with ten pounds of weights already placed inside the vest, so the vest is pretty much ready to go once you get it. Also, this vest features a thin design so that it never feels bulky, which also gives it a nice range of motion and provides you with the flexibility you want. Also, you’ll get a fully adjustable vest that is designed to stay in place no matter how intensive your runs become.

Durability:

This vest is designed to last quite some time, so you get a lot of durability with it. It features a strong fabric that provides a comfortable fit but it also designed with a lot of durability in it, so the vest is built to last for a while. You’ll get a lot of use out of it before you will ever need to worry about replacing it.

Value:

This vest is an excellent product for runners, but it does run more on the expensive side of things. However, considering what you get with it and its durable design, you’ll be able to use the vest for quite some time before you need to worry about replacing it. So, it is still a great investment for anybody that wants a nice weight vest to boost their running training.

Amazon Link
$209.99

2. ZFOsports 40LBs Adjustable

Where to buy
Amazon Link
ZFOsports 40LBs Adjustable
Amazon Link

ZFOsports created their 40LBs Adjustable Weighted Vest for people who want a heavier vest when training on their runs. One nice feature about purchasing this vest is that it comes with the weights already inside the vest, and you get the total of forty pounds once the product arrives. You can remove the weights as you see fit, and adjust the vest in 2.5 pound increments. Plus, this vest is also made for both men and women, and does a good job of staying in place during your runs.

Read more

Comfort:

This vest offers a comfortable fit and it is very easy to adjust. Once you adjust it to get the perfect fit, you’ll be able to feel very comfortable as you work out since the vest will fit you snugly and is also very flexible when you work out. It moves as you move, and it also features a nice padding system to keep your skin from feeling any pulling or rubbing.

Features:

This vest comes with a few bonus features that are worth mentioning, and that come in handy for most people. First, you get an extra pocket so you can fit your phone or your mp3 player and listen to music while you run. Also, you get a water bottle holder designed into this vest that can hold up to sixteen ounces and keep you very hydrated as you run. Also, you are able to adjust the weights easily with this vest, which all makes this an excellent product.

Durability:

This weighted vest is a nice starter vest, but it is also designed with a lot of durability so that it will last you for a long period of time. It is comprised out of high-quality materials that make it easy for the vest to resist abrasions as well as scratches and tears. So, you will have a long-lasting product that you can use for some time while you run.

Value:

Priced affordably, this vest isn’t overly expensive for its quality and durability. It is designed to last you for a while, so you will get a lot of use out of it for your money. That combined with its satisfaction guarantee makes it an excellent product choice.

Amazon Link

3. CAP Barbell Adjustable

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$70.24
CAP Barbell Adjustable
Amazon Link

CAP’s Barbell Adjustable Weighted Vest works great for runners who want a wide, heavier weight range to work out with while they are on the go. You can select from between forty to one hundred and fifty pounds with this vest, and also easily adjust the weight amounts. This vest is also padded and comfortable, and features a nice ventilation system. You also get a nice pocket to hold your phone and listen to music, and some reflective safety strips.

Read more

Comfort:

CAP’s Barbell Adjustable Weighted Vest has a decent amount of padding and cushioning in it to help you out with comfort. Also, the vest is very adjustable, and features clips so that you can size it correctly to fit you easily. You get a nice ventilation system which includes a breathable mesh fabric so that you won’t ever have to worry about overheating or feeling like you are sweating too much.

Features:

CAP’s Barbell Adjustable Weighted Vest offers a few great features that are worth mentioning. First, it comes with adjustable clips that make it easy for you to get the vest to fit you. Next, you get a nice ventilation system that will allow your skin to breathe while you are active. You’ll get a pocket to fit your smartphone and listen to music as well as reflective safety strips which can make you more visible and increase your safety when you are out running in low-light conditions.

Durability:

This vest is quite durable, and is designed out of high-quality neoprene materials that make it long lasting. Those materials also make the vest comfortable and add to the vest’s ability to ventilate correctly. You’ll be able to use this vest for some time before you’ll need to worry about replacing it, which makes it a nice product.

Value:

Priced affordably, this vest comes at a value price and won’t burn a hole in your pocket book. Plus, it is also very durable, so you’ll have it for some time once you purchase it, and that makes it worth the investment. With all the extra features you’ll get, you’ll love using this vest on your runs.

Amazon Link
$70.24

4. Cross 101 Adjustable

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$69.99
Cross 101 Adjustable
Amazon Link

The Cross 101 Adjustable Weighted Vest offers you an innovative design if you want to carry more weight and start your running off with up to forty pounds on you. The vest allows for increments of four pounds as you build yourself up and personalize your runs the way you want them. Also, this vest features a nice belt and a lot of adjustability options to give you a great fit. This vest also adds a nice bonus feature with it since the weights are included when you purchase the vest, and that makes this an affordable option.

Read more

Comfort:

The Cross 101 Adjustable Weighted Vest offers a decent amount of comfort designed into the vest. It does come with padding, but other shoulder padding options are also available if you want more cushioning in the vest. Also, you get a lot of nice adjustment features with this vest that make it easy to get the right fit. The vest is also designed to breathe and ventilate well, so you won’t feel too sweaty when you are running in it.

Features:

You get several great features if you decide to purchase the vest. First, we really like that the weights are included with the vest, which makes this an affordable purchase. You also get some pockets with this vest that you can use as needed. You can purchase it in a few different colors and styles, and you’ll be able to adjust it easily for maximum comfort.

Durability:

This vest is quite durable for the price and the number of features that are included with the set. It can easily resist tears, scratches, and abrasions because it features a high-quality outer shell that is designed to last. So, you won’t need to worry about replacing the vest for quite some time once you’ve purchased it. You’ll get a lot of use and great training options if you decide to purchase this vest.

Value:

Another nice thing about this vest is that it is affordable, and when you factor in the fact that the weights are included, you are getting a decently affordable option here. Also, the vest has a lot of durability built into the design, so you won’t need to worry about replacing it for a while after you purchase it. You also get a manufacturer warranty with this product, which should give you some peace of mind if you need to return it.

Amazon Link
$69.99

5. MiR Adjustable Weighted Vest

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$199.99
MiR Adjustable Weighted Vest
Amazon Link

The MiR Adjustable Weighted Vest is designed to give you plenty of flexibility and mobility each time you decide to run with it on. It is a shorter vest which means it doesn’t impede your movements, and it is very adjustable so that you’ll always get the perfect fit. You can also purchase the vest in different weight amounts that vary from twenty to sixty pounds. With the vest, the weights are included with your purchase, so that makes this a nice choice. The weights can be added in three pound increments so you can more easily customize your work outs and runs.

Read more

Comfort:

The MiR Adjustable Weighted Vest has a shorter design that helps give you more mobility as you move, so you get a lot of flexibility and comfort with that. This vest is also designed to give you a lot of ventilation, so it breathes very well and helps keep you cooled down as you run with it. You also get the ability to adjust this vest easily to get the perfect fit, and a lot of padding for maximum comfort.

Features:

The MiR Adjustable Weighted Vest offers a bevy of features that make this vest an excellent choice. First, you can throw it in your washing machine and dry it, and that helps you easily keep it clean. This vest is also very breathable, and that’s a nice bonus. You’ll get the weights included with the vest and a nice Velcro belt that can help you make adjustments more easily.

Durability:

This vest is designed by a manufacturer that is well-known for making high-quality, durable products, and this product is no different. You’ll get a durable outer shell that can resist abrasions, tears and scratches with ease if you run with it on the trails. You’ll also get a vest that you can easily maintain by washing it easily, which adds to the durability. So, you won’t need to worry about replacing this vest for some time.

Value:

Depending on what type of weight you want to hold with your vest, the price of this vest can vary. The heavier weight options tend to cost more, but since you get a lifetime guarantee with this product, it is still well worth the price. Plus, you’ll get a vest with a durable design that you’ll be able to keep and use for quite some time.

Amazon Link
$199.99

6. Empower Weighted Vest

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$49.95
Empower Weighted Vest
Amazon Link

Empower’s Weighted Vest is designed to fit women, and works great to strength train as you are running. You get a well-designed vest that is made from durable neoprene that helps make the vest long lasting and also very comfortable. Also, the weights in this vest can be placed so you have equal weight distribution and great balance on your runs. Also, this vest features an innovative X-shape design that makes it easy to adjust for a great fit.

Read more

Comfort:

Empower’s Weighted Vest offers a lot of comfort for women since it is designed to give them the perfect fit. You’ll get adjustment options so that you can get the best fit possible and feel comfortable while you are on the go. Also, you get a decent amount of cushioning with this vest so that you won’t need to worry about feeling the vest too much. It also breathes well and offers plenty of ventilation.

Features:

This vest features a lot of interesting benefits for women. It carries up to eight pounds, and is designed with an x-shape so that it is easily adjustable and fits most body types easily. You’ll also get a vest that features reflective strips on it, which can make you more visible to oncoming traffic as you run and keeps you safe. You’ll be able to adjust it easily and enhance your cardio workouts to burn more calories with ease.

Durability:

This vest is manufactured with high-quality neoprene, which is a very durable material that brings flexibility and also means this vest is built to last. So, this vest can resist tears, scratches, and abrasions with ease, and you’ll be able to use it for quite a while before you’ll need to worry about replacing it. You also get a nice pocket with this design that will let you bring your important items with you as you are running.

Value:

This vest comes in the affordable price range, which is nice considering the fact it is so durable. This vest is a great investment because it is made from high-quality materials that can take a lot of abuse and still keep going on your runs with you. You’ll love how easy this vest is to use, and the increased workouts you’ll achieve.

Amazon Link
$49.95

7. RUNFast Max Pro Weighted Vest

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$169.99
RUNFast Max Pro Weighted Vest
Amazon Link

The RUNFast/Max Pro Weighted Vest offers a unique design, and lets you strap on the weights with ease instead of placing the weights into pockets that can be difficult to use. This vest goes in increments from twelve pounds to sixty pounds, and can be used to boost your runs and give you a more effective workout. You can purchase this vest with or without shoulder pads, although we suggest you get the shoulder pads because they really do increase your comfort level.

Read more

Comfort:

The RUNFast/Max Pro Weighted Vest has optional shoulder pads if you decide to buy them, and we suggest that you do because the extra padding adds a great deal of comfort to the vest. Also, you’ll get a vest that is very adjustable so that you can make it fit you easily, and boost your comfort level. You’ll also get a vest that offers decent ventilation and can breathe well, so you won’t have to worry about drowning in your own sweat.

Features:

This vest comes with a lot of interesting features. You get the weights with this vest when you purchase it, but if you want the shoulder pads, you do need to pay a bit more for those. Also, the weights strap onto this vest instead of using pockets, and that makes this vest easy to use. You also get a nice warranty included with this vest.

Durability:

This vest is designed from high-quality materials that make it very durable. It can easily resist tears, scratches and abrasions any time you are running on the trail with it. You’ll be able to use this vest for many years, and allow yourself to build up your workouts with ease.

Value:

Even though you need to purchase the shoulder pads as an addition, you do get the weights with this vest, and it comes at an affordable price. That does make it a decent value, and considering all the durability you’ll get with the vest, it is a great investment. It also comes with a one year manufacturer’s warranty, so you get some peace of mind knowing the manufacturer stands behind this product.

Amazon Link
$169.99

8. Tone Fitness

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$27.49
Tone Fitness
Amazon Link

This vest is sleek and fits great. It is made from a neoprene material so it feels good against your skin or clothes and feels comfortable. If you are an avid night runner, this vest also has you covered as it has reflective strips to make you visible during the night. Definitely a vest to check out.

Read more

Comfort:

This weight vest comes with a lot of comfort designed into it. First, it is fully adjustable, and you can easily adjust it to fit you and make sure it stays in position. You can easily get the right fit and the best comfort using the front adjustable strap to make sure it fits snug. Plus, you can use this weight vest when you run, but also for regular work outs as well. You get padded cushions in both the shoulders and chest with this vest.

Features:

This weight vest does not allow you adjust the weight but keeps you at a 12 pound weight to make sure you get a constant workout every time you run. You’ll get a great workout boost and a vest that always provide you with the right fit.

Durability:

This vest is designed with a very strong abrasion resistant outer shell. That outer shell resists tears and scratches with ease, and provides a lot of durability as well. So, you get a product that is built to last with this vest, and that means you are purchasing a quality vest with this product. The durability is great, and this vest will work for you for some time.

Value:

With all of the durability built into this vest, you’ll get a long-lasting product that is worth the investment. This vest is also priced to be affordable and won’t burn a hole in your wallet. So, you’ll get plenty of use out of it and a price that isn’t too expensive.

Amazon Link
$27.49

9. ZELUS

Where to buy
Amazon Link
ZELUS
Amazon Link

This vest is definitely one to check out if you are looking to take your running to the next level. A sleek design and comfortable fit makes this weighted vest one of the top vests on the market.

Read more

Comfort:

The Perfect Fitness Weight Vest features a design that factors comfort in so that you’ll feel great each time you run with it. It is designed to give you comfort and the weights are made to be flat so it is very easy for you to move with the vest on. Plus, you get an exterior shell that is made with ventilation in mind, so the vest breathes very well and you won’t have to worry about feeling as if you are soaking in perspiration or overheating.

Features:

The Perfect Fitness Weight Vest is designed with reflective materials that are a nice bonus feature because they keep you safe by making you very visible to vehicles you might encounter on the road while you run. Also, you get a nice pocket for your smart phone or MP3 player that will allow you to listen to music while you are on the go. This vest is also designed with a lot of adjustability and padding so you get a nice, comfortable fit.

Durability:

The outer shell of this weight vest is designed with several high-quality materials that make its outside very durable. You also get a lot of durability built into the vest because of its padding and overall design quality, so you’ll get a lot of use out of this vest if you decide to purchase it.

Value:

Because this vest is designed to be so durable, it makes a nice value purchase. It also isn’t overly expensive and runs more in the affordable price range, so you know you won’t have to spend a large amount of money on it. Plus, you’ll be able to use it for a long time before you need to worry about replacing it, which makes it a nice investment.

Amazon Link

10. Valeo Pound

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Valeo Pound
Amazon Link

If you are looking for a vest that not only is adjustable but also has storage for your phone or MP3 player than this is the vest for you. Made to last and provide a great upper body workout the Valeo will not disappoint.

Read more

Comfort:

The Vest is designed with comfort in mind, and helps to keep weight away from your core as you work out but still targets your core effectively by design. You also get plenty of adjustable features so that you can get the vest to fit you perfectly. The vest is very flexible and also features some nice padding that will keep you comfortable. Plus, it offers a decent amount of breathability so that you won’t need to worry about overheating.

Features:

This Weight Vest comes with some great features that make it a nice purchase option. You get a lot of durability and this vest being adjustable means you can structure the weight to where you are in your workout. It is also designed with a lot of pockets and flexibility to get you in shape quickly.

Durability:

It is designed to last and advertised as a weight vest that can withstand tough workouts.

Value:

This vest runs on the expensive side of the spectrum, but it is still worth the money and makes a great investment.

Amazon Link

Sources

  1. Kate Halse, Top 10 Best Weighted Vests for Workouts, Informatiional Running Website
  2. Brad, The Top 10 Weight Vests Reviewed, Informatiional Running Website
  3. William Lane, The Best Running Weight Vests, Informatiional Running Website