Do you want to challenge yourself while running? Do you want to improve your fitness level? You can improve your strength, endurance and cardiovascular system by using a weighted vest. So, what is the best weighted vest for running?

Weighted vests vary in design, comfort and durability. There are those with adjustable weight, body-fitting and designed for mobility. The best ones are also washable and feature adjustable straps.

Weighted Vest for Running Reviews

RUNFast/Max Pro Weighted Vest

RUNFast/Max Pro Weighted Vest is best for walking and running. With the nylon vest and adjustable shoulder straps, it will perfectly fit your body with no to minimal rubbing. It has sand weight material, which is softer than metal weights.

>>>> Click Here To See Customer Reviews & Current Price <<<<

Tone Fitness Weighted Vest

The Tone Fitness Weighted Vest is a sand weight material vest that is good for cross training and jogging. It does not move around too much when jumping and during burpees. It will stay put, making it great for workouts.

>>>> Click Here To See Customer Reviews & Current Price <<<<

Pure Fitness Weighted Vest

This Weighted Training Vest is a good vest during workouts. It has a reflective trim that is useful when running or jogging during the night. It also has sand weight fillers. It fits most body type.

>>> Click Here To See Customer Reviews & Current Price <<<<

ZFOSports Unisex Weighted Vest

This weighted vest by ZFOSports is a good start when you do brisk walking, jogging and intense workouts. It is built for average body built, making it fit men and women.

>>>> Click Here To See Customer Reviews & Current Price <<<<

MIR Weighted Vest

This weighted vest has a super compact design that can only be worn by men. The purpose is for maximum core performance exercise. Great to wear when running.

>>>> Click Here To See Customer Reviews & Current Price <<<<

Hyperwear Hyper Vest

This unisex weighted vest by Hyperwear is made from synthetic fabric with steel weight that is cool and easy to pull out. Just a safety reminder though, steel weights might damage the fabric and your skin during a heavy workout.

>>> Click Here To See Customer Reviews & Current Price <<<<

Types of Weighted Vest

There are many kinds, shapes, and sizes of weighted vest. They differ based on cost, durability, comfort and weight. Some simply look like jackets while others have sleek and adjustable designs. Below are the most common variations of a weighted vest:

Fixed. The fixed types are vests with fixed weight. The weights are non-removable as it is sewn directly into the cloth or fabric of the vest.

Removable Weight. Removable weights are the adjustable ones. This is ideal for runners who wish to start at a lower weight then work their way up.

Male Vest. Male vests usually have heavier weights since male capacity is higher than women. You can also tighten this on a higher degree to lessen the shifting.

Female Vest. Women’s vests have lighter weights and they are usually fixed. Most of these also come in V-shape with tighter fitting at the waist.

Each weighted vest mentioned above also varies in shape. Some vests cover the entire torso. This one has a belt around the waist. Some can just be worn on the upper chest.

How to Select a Weighted Vest

Due to the wide variety of weighted vest, it is important to know which one to choose best. First, take note of the quality and material of the vest that you wish to buy. To ensure the quality, take note of the following:

Durability. Choose a sweat- and tear-resistant vest. Since you will be using it on activities wherein you will most likely sweat the most, make that it does not easily get damaged by it.

Material Used for the Weights. Make sure that the weights are made of non-rust material. If it gets rusty, it will soon get damaged.

Adjustability and Accessories. The components used for proper fitting also count. Accessories for adjustment add up to the total comfort of the user; hence, longer duration of running if preferred.

Weight Capacity. Do not forget to check the capacity of the vest that you are looking at. It should definitely fit your needs and capability.

Price. Last thing that you should consider is the price. There are lots of manufacturers that produce the same design and promise the same level of comfort and durability. It doesn’t always mean that the more expensive vest is the more efficient one. Check for reasonably priced ones with great quality. Check reviews for guidance.

How to Maintain your Weighted Vest

A weighted vest can last for years if maintained properly. It is also an investment; hence, you most likely want to have it last for long.

Since your vest would be drenched with sweat and will gather some dust after usage, it is best to clean it every once in a while.

The maintenance of your weight vest will depend on the product and its manufacturer. Make it a habit to check the package label for company recommended cleaning.

The manufacturer states if the vest can be washed through washing machine. Most vests, especially the fixed type, cannot be washed nor ironed

In those cases when the vest is not machine washable, just spray some water and wipe with a soft towel. You can also find antimicrobial sprays in local stores.

On the other hand, there are washable vests like those with removable weights. Though washable, it is recommended to clean the vest by hand washing only.

Advantages of Having Weighted Vest

Wearing a weighted vest adds up to the usual benefit of running. It also increases calorie burn, which is best if you are running to lose weight.

Wearing a vest also adds resistance to your workout. This may result to improving your endurance and strength. Due to the additional weight on your body, expect to improve your stamina, agility and overall running performance.

Having a weighted vest adds variation to your exercise. When the body get accustomed to your workout, you suddenly get discouraged because you don’t seem to notice the results.

Adding a weight vest or changing the weight adds up to the variation wherein you can see the differences in the result without changing your routine at all.

Just as your strength and endurance grows, added weight can have a greater impact on your performance. Running around with the weighted vest makes your body work harder and faster.

Just like its effect on your muscles, having a weighted vest also strengthens your bones. This can further improve your capacity to handle extra loads.