Weighted Vests

Weighted vests are a powerful and versatile tool for enhancing strength training, improving endurance, and increasing calorie burn — all without changing your workout routine. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete, a runner looking to boost performance, or just getting into bodyweight fitness, a weighted vest adds intensity and challenge to everyday movements.

Since 1988, we’ve supplied UK customers with high-quality fitness gear, including durable, adjustable vests trusted by personal trainers, gym users and sports professionals alike.

💪 Why Use a Weighted Vest?

Adding external weight to your body helps increase resistance during exercise, leading to improved results. Weighted vests are popular for:

Bodyweight training (e.g. push-ups, squats, pull-ups)
Walking, running or hiking to increase cardio impact
HIIT and functional fitness workouts
Improving bone density and posture
Progressive overload without needing heavy gym equipment

They allow hands-free resistance, making them ideal for versatile and dynamic workouts.

🛍️ Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Weighted Vest

Feature	Why It Matters
Weight Capacity	Most vests range from 5kg to 30kg; choose based on your fitness level
Adjustability	Removable weights let you increase or decrease the load as needed
Fit and Size	A snug, secure fit prevents bounce during movement
Closure Type	Look for Velcro straps, clips or zips for easy on/off and stability
Material and Breathability	Durable fabrics like nylon or neoprene with mesh for airflow
Purpose	Some vests are designed specifically for running, CrossFit, or calisthenics

🏋️ Popular Types of Weighted Vests

1. Adjustable Plate Vests

Use steel or iron plates and are popular for CrossFit and tactical training.

2. Fixed-Weight Vests

Come pre-filled and are ideal for consistent training without adjustments.

3. Sandbag-Style Vests

Use soft sand pouches for more even weight distribution and comfort.

4. Running Weighted Vests

Slimline, minimal-bounce designs for runners and walkers.

5. Short-Length Vests

Stop at the mid-torso, offering more freedom of movement for HIIT or upper-body work.

🧠 Expert Tips for Choosing and Using a Weighted Vest

Start with a lighter load (5–10% of your body weight) and increase gradually
Choose adjustable vests if you want to vary resistance or progress over time
For running or cardio, look for low-profile, breathable designs
Ensure the vest fits snugly around the torso to prevent rubbing or shifting
Use it for short bursts during your workout until your body adapts
Pair with moisture-wicking clothing for added comfort during high-intensity workouts

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Starting with too much weight — this can lead to injury or poor form
❌ Choosing the wrong size — a vest that’s too loose will bounce during movement
❌ Wearing for too long during cardio — use for intervals, not full sessions initially
❌ Not securing weight pockets — loose weights can shift or fall
❌ Using the same weight for all exercises — not every movement requires maximum load

🏆 Bestselling Weighted Vests

Adjustable 20kg Plate Carrier Vest – Ideal for CrossFit and bodyweight workouts
Fixed 10kg Weighted Training Vest – Simple, durable and easy to use
5kg Neoprene Slim Fit Running Vest – Great for walking, running and daily wear
25kg Heavy-Duty Tactical Vest – Built for serious strength training
Adjustable Sand-Filled Weight Vest – Flexible and soft for comfort
10kg Women’s Fit Ergonomic Vest – Designed for smaller frames
Compact Short Vest with Velcro Fastening – Perfect for mobility and HIIT
15kg Gym Training Vest with Removable Weights – Versatile and gym-ready
Weighted Hiking Vest with Breathable Mesh – Ideal for trail workouts
Children’s Introductory Fitness Vest (2.5kg) – For youth training under supervision

❓ Weighted Vests – FAQs

1. What is a weighted vest used for?
A weighted vest adds resistance to bodyweight exercises or cardio workouts, helping you build strength, stamina, and calorie burn.

2. How heavy should my weighted vest be?
Start with 5–10% of your body weight. As your strength increases, you can add more weight.

3. Can I run with a weighted vest?
Yes — but choose a low-profile, snug-fitting vest specifically designed for running to prevent bouncing.

4. Are weighted vests safe?
Yes — when used correctly and progressively. Avoid overloading or using one if you have joint issues without consulting a professional.

5. Will wearing a weighted vest help me lose weight?
It can help increase calorie burn and intensity, especially during cardio or strength circuits, supporting weight-loss goals when combined with proper diet.

6. Can women use weighted vests?
Absolutely. Many brands offer vests sized for women, with adjustable fits for better comfort and support.

7. Are weighted vests good for walking?
Yes — even adding 5–10kg to daily walks can boost cardiovascular benefits and endurance over time.

8. How long should I wear a weighted vest during workouts?
Start with 10–15 minutes per session, then gradually increase duration or intensity as your body adapts.

9. What exercises work well with a weighted vest?
Great for push-ups, squats, lunges, planks, step-ups, running, hiking and climbing stairs.

10. How do I clean and maintain my weighted vest?
Most vests are wipe-clean only, especially those with sand or metal components. Avoid machine washing unless the label says it’s safe.

🌟 Final Thoughts

Weighted vests are one of the most effective tools to elevate your workouts, from callisthenics and HIIT to hiking and strength training. They offer scalable resistance, improve endurance, and make everyday exercises more efficient. With over 35 years of experience in supplying trusted fitness equipment, our range of weighted vests combines durability, comfort, and versatility for beginners and pros alike.

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Weighted Vests

BAGAIL Weighted Vest for Strength Training, Bust Size Adjustable, Convenient Pocket, Iron Sand Weighted Vests, Ideal for Gym Workouts, Yoga Training and Aerobic Exercises

vailge Adjustable Weighted Vest for Women and Men, 1.8kg – 4.5kg, Weight Vests with Removable Sandbags, for Fitness Running Walking Strength Training Workout Calisthenics Crossfit

Weighted Vest, Breathable Mesh Adjustable Weight Vest Strength Training Jacket for Men Women Workout Fitness (Black)

Weighted vest for Kids Sensory (S)

Weighted Vest, 15kg/20kg/50kg Adjustable Vest Weight Exercise Weight Loading Strength Training, Training Cloth For Running,

Adjustable Weighted Vest Men Women, Running Weighted Vests Strength Training Weight Vests Fitness Weight Vest with Shoulder Pads for Walking Strength Training Fitness, 20kg Loading

Sandbag Vest 35kg Adjustable Weighted Sandbag Mesh Vest Sports Strength Training Running

ZELUS Adjustable Weighted Vest Pure Iron Fitness Vest, Adjustable Vest for Cardio and Strength Training and Weight Loss (20 kg)

Weighted Vest Men BeatBoost 40 lb Adjustable Weight Vest with Wrist Ankle Weights Steel Plates Weights for Walking Strength Training Running Workout

iplusmile 1 Set Adjustable Weighted Vest for Fitness Training Capacity Vest Leg Wraps Hand Wraps Breathable Wear Design for Running Jogging and Home Workouts

Sled Harness Vest Waist Belt Strength & Power Training Belt Weight Training Resistance Belt Workout Harness Speed Trainer Weighted Resistance Band Rope Kit Sprinting Resistance Speed Band Adjustable

APEXUP Adjustable Weighted Vest, 4-10lb/12-18lb/20-32lb Vest with 6 Ironsand Weights and Large Pocket, Weight Vest for Men Women Strength Training, Running, Walking (4-10lb, Black)

GFIRE Quick Release Lightweight Vest Adjustable Breathable Weighted Vest for Training

Adjustable Weighted Running Vest for Men Women Capacity Breathable for Enhanced Comfort Versatile Design for Gym Strength Training Fitness Workouts

VICASKY Adjustable Weighted Vest for Men and Women Versatile Gym Weight Vest for Running Strength Training and Workouts Maximum Load Stylish Design for Everyday Wear

Kisangel 1pc Fitness Weighted Vest Body-building Gear for Running Training Capacity Breathable Design Suitable for Men and Women for Strength Training and

VICASKY 1Pc Fitness Weighted Vest Weight Bearing Gear for Running Training Capacity Empty Vest for Men Women Breathable Durable Workout Equipment for Gym

Abaodam Adjustable Weighted Vest for Men Women Breathable Comfort Weight Vest for Running Gym Strength Training Durable Stylish Design Weights Up

ibasenice Adjustable Weighted Vest for Adults Enhanced Comfort and Durability for Running Gym Workouts and Strength Training Multiple Weights Suitable for Men and Women

ibasenice Adjustable Weighted Vest for Men and Women Comfortable Fit Gym Weight Vest for Running Strength Training Workouts Breathable for Enhanced Performance Maximum Load

HEMOTON Adjustable Weighted Vest for Men Women Breathable Fitness Vest for Running Strength Training Weight Up to Durable Gym Equipment for Enhanced Workouts

Toyvian Adjustable Weighted Vest for Men and Women Gym Weight Vest for Running Strength Training Breathable Versatile Design for Enhanced Workout Efficiency

Toddmomy 1PC Adjustable Weighted Vest for Fitness Training Breathable Durable Sleeveless Garment for Men Women for Running Jogging Home Workouts High Density Slip Design

Zelvot Running Vest for Women Men, UK Original Patent, Adjustable Chest Straps Running Hydration Vest with 500ml Water Bottle, Lightweight Reflective Running Phone Holder Vest (Black, M/L)