Weighted vests can be a game-changer for women looking to add resistance to their workouts, whether it’s for strength training, walking, running, or general fitness.
After extensive testing and feedback from fitness enthusiasts, I’ve curated a list of the six best weighted vests tailored specifically for women.
These picks balance comfort, versatility, and performance, making them perfect for all fitness levels.
Our Picks of The Best Weighted Vest For Women in 2025
- IMPROVE EFFICIENCY – Weighted vests are perfect for adding a challenge to your daily workout, pushing your limits, and helping you reach your fitness goals faster. The added resistance helps build strength, endurance, allowing you to train longer and more effectively, and improve your overall fitness.
- PREMIUM MATERIAL – This strength training weight vest is made of durable neoprene fabric, double-stitched, and weighted with iron sand, promising longevity while maintaining its shape and effectiveness over time.
- Faster Fitness Gains: Zelus weighted vests (6/8/12/16/20/25/30 lb) feature evenly distributed iron sand to add extra resistance to your daily workout. They provide a simple way to push yourself harder without the need for bulky gear in your routine
- One Size Fits Most: Our weighted vest for women and men is equipped with adjustable buckle straps that offer a snug fit for chest sizes between 31.5″ and 45″. No matter your body type, it stays securely in place as you work to improve your strength
- Max Out Your Training: Zelus 6/8/12/16/20/25/30 lb. weighted vests use evenly distributed, high-density iron sand to pack maximum resistance efficiently while keeping a comfortable, close-to-body fit for all your home, gym, or outdoor workouts
- Workout Just Got Safer: Safety comes standard with every Zelus weighted vest, tested to meet California Proposition 65 & certified by SGS under EU REACH & US CPSIA standards. With over a million sold, you can train safely alongside the Zelus community
- 【Comfort-Optimized Design】We’ve enhanced comfort by widening the straps and adding extra padding to the shoulders. With soft materials that prevent chafing, you can now exercise comfortably for longer periods.
- 【2 Adjustable Straps & Reflective Stripes】The weighted running vest has 2 adjustable straps to prevent slipping or sliding during your exercise, which also ensures better fitting for users with different bust sizes. The reflective stripes on both sides of the vest will reflect vehicle headlight, safer for nighttime running.
- RENOJ WEIGHTED VEST Maximize Every Move:Turn Walks, Runs & Workouts into Strength Builders.
- Ergonomic & Secure Fit for All Activities：Engineered with reinforced chest to helps minimize shifting with proper fit during high-intensity movement, such as running, rucking, or high-intensity gym sessions. The reflective stripes enhance safety for outdoor exercise at low-light conditions. Adjustable simple clip system ensures a snug body fit without restricting abdominal movement.
- Shoulder and Waist Double Locks: Please pay attention to the product size details! This adjustable weighted vest features double locks on the waist and shoulders. Before use, you need to manually adjust the shoulder and waist straps to achieve the best fit and ensure comfort
- Easy to Clean: This adjustable vest can extract all the weight for cleaning, which is very important! Moreover, the reflective strips at the front and back provide visibility and safety during exercise, even in the dark
- ENHANCED WORKOUT – Zikopomi Weighted Vest adds an extra challenge to your workout routine. Its added resistance helps build strength and endurance, improving your overall fitness results.
- PREMIUM MATERIAL – Our strength training weight vests durable neoprene fabric and iron sand weights, as well as a stronger double-stitched design, our strength training weighted vests are built to withstand hundreds of different workouts.
- ATTENTION – The elastic of this vest should be at the waist. Please look carefully at the direction of wear on the pictures
- IRON PELLETS & METAL ROCK – Henkelion weighted vest is filled with premium iron pellets and metal rock rather than using cheap river sand
- 6-18 LBS ADJUSTABLE WEIGHTED VEST WOMEN – Unlike others with just 6 removable weights, our weight vest features 8 x 1.5 lbs weight blocks, which filled with premium iron-sand. Adding the 6 lbs weight of the vest, you can easily adjust the weight from 6 to 18 lbs for a customized workout
- 2025 UPGRADED DETACHABLE REFLECTIVE STRIPS – Besides the high-visibility reflective strips on the front, shoulders, and back, our adjustable weighted vest also features a detachable front reflective patches, which has 6 bright reflective strips on it. Unlike standard designs, this doubles night visibility, ensuring a safer running experience in low-light conditions
- ATTENTION – The elastic of this vest should be at the waist. Please look carefully at the direction of wear on the pictures
- IRON PELLETS & METAL ROCK – Henkelion weighted vest is filled with premium iron pellets and metal rock rather than using cheap river sand
Best Weighted Vest For Women in 2025
Best Weighted Vest For Running
Henkelion Weighted Running Vest
The Henkelion Weighted Running Vest is a standout option for women who love to run. Its sleek and compact design ensures it doesn’t feel bulky, even during long-distance runs. The vest features evenly distributed weights that stay secure, so there’s no bouncing or shifting as you move. I tested this vest during a 5K run and was impressed by how comfortable it felt, even after extended use.
One feature I particularly appreciated was the breathable fabric, which kept me cool even on a warm day. It’s also easy to put on and adjust, making it a hassle-free choice for runners. However, its weight options may not satisfy those looking for heavier resistance, but it’s perfect for cardio enthusiasts seeking a light to moderate challenge.
Best Value Weighted Vest
RITFIT Weighted Vest
The RITFIT Weighted Vest offers excellent value for women looking for an affordable yet effective option. This vest is versatile and works well for activities like strength training, walking, and light running. I loved how the adjustable straps made it easy to achieve a secure fit, regardless of body type.
The vest is durable and built to last, which is impressive given its budget-friendly price. The weights are evenly distributed, providing a balanced feel that enhances workouts without discomfort. While it doesn’t have some of the premium features of higher-end models, it’s a reliable option for those starting out or looking for an affordable alternative.
Best Weighted Vest For Walking
Prodigen Weight Vest
The Prodigen Weight Vest is perfect for women who want to incorporate resistance into their daily walks. The vest is lightweight and designed to sit snugly against your body, so you won’t feel any awkward shifting or bouncing. I found it ideal for casual strolls as well as brisk power walks.
One of its standout features is the reflective detailing, which adds an element of safety for evening or early-morning walks. It’s also made from durable materials, ensuring it holds up over time. While it may not be suitable for high-intensity workouts, it’s an excellent choice for those focused on walking for fitness or leisure.
What to Consider
Weight of the Vest
When choosing a weighted vest, it’s essential to consider how much weight you need. Beginners might prefer lighter options in the 5–10 lb range, while those more experienced with resistance training may want vests up to 20 lbs or more. It’s always better to start light and gradually increase the weight as your strength improves.
When You’ll Wear It
Think about the types of activities you’ll use the vest for. Running and walking require lightweight, snug-fitting vests, while strength training benefits from adjustable options with heavier weight capacities. Also, consider whether you’ll use the vest indoors or outdoors and choose materials accordingly.
Henkelion Weighted Running Vest
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design
- Breathable fabric for maximum comfort
- Stays securely in place during movement
Cons
- Limited weight options
- Not suitable for heavy strength training
RITFIT Weighted Vest
Pros
- Affordable and versatile
- Adjustable straps for a secure fit
- Durable materials for long-term use
Cons
- Lacks premium features of higher-end models
- Slightly bulkier than some options
Prodigen Weight Vest
Pros
- Ideal for walking and light activities
- Reflective detailing for added safety
- Comfortable and snug fit
Cons
- Not designed for high-intensity workouts
- Limited to light-to-moderate resistance
Zelus Weighted Vest
Pros
- Durable construction for a variety of workouts
- Comfortable fit with adjustable straps
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Weight distribution could be improved
- Heavier weights may feel bulky for smaller frames
Vivitory Weighted Vest Workout Equipment
Pros
- Compact and easy to wear
- Excellent for mobility-focused exercises
- Durable materials ensure longevity
Cons
- Limited weight range
- May feel restrictive for larger body types
Cross101 Adjustable Camouflage Weighted Vest
Pros
- Unique camouflage design
- Adjustable weights for tailored resistance
- Robust construction for heavy-duty use
Cons
- Heavier than other options
- May feel bulky during cardio exercises
What are the benefits of weighted vests for women?
Weighted vests help women add resistance to their workouts, enhancing strength, endurance, and calorie burn. They can improve bone density, boost cardiovascular fitness, and make activities like walking or running more challenging. Additionally, they can enhance posture and core strength when used regularly.
FAQs
How heavy should a weighted vest be for a woman?
Most women should start with a vest weighing 5–10 lbs for cardio and general fitness. For strength training, vests up to 20 lbs may be appropriate.
Should women use weighted vests?
Yes, weighted vests are an excellent way for women to add resistance to their workouts and improve overall fitness, strength, and endurance.
How to choose a weighted vest for women?
Look for a vest that fits snugly, offers adjustable weights, and suits your specific activities, whether it’s running, walking, or strength training.
Who shouldn’t wear a weighted vest?
People with joint issues, back problems, or certain medical conditions should consult a doctor before using a weighted vest.
Does a weighted vest help lose belly fat?
While a weighted vest can increase calorie burn, it’s not a magic solution for spot reduction. Combined with a healthy diet, it supports overall fat loss.
What happens if a weighted vest is too heavy?
Using a vest that’s too heavy can strain joints, compromise form, and increase the risk of injury.
Can you lose weight by walking with a weighted vest?
Yes, walking with a weighted vest can boost calorie burn and contribute to weight loss as part of an active lifestyle.
How many hours a day should you wear a weighted vest?
It’s best to wear a weighted vest only during workouts or short periods of physical activity to avoid unnecessary strain.
What are the pros and cons of wearing a weighted vest?
Pros include improved strength, endurance, and calorie burn. Cons include potential joint strain if the vest is too heavy or improperly used.
Is a 20 lb weight vest enough?
For most women, a 20 lb vest provides ample resistance for strength training or high-intensity cardio workouts.
Does walking with a weighted vest build bone density?
Yes, weighted vests can improve bone density by applying additional load, which stimulates bone growth.
What is the rule for weighted vests?
Start with 5–10% of your body weight and gradually increase as your strength improves.
Which is better, ankle weights or weighted vests?
Weighted vests are generally better for overall resistance training as they distribute weight evenly, while ankle weights target specific areas.
How tight should a weighted vest be?
A weighted vest should fit snugly but not restrict movement or breathing.
Is a weighted belt better than a weighted vest for osteoporosis?
A weighted vest is usually better for osteoporosis as it distributes weight evenly and can support weight-bearing exercises.
How much harder is running with a weighted vest?
Running with a weighted vest adds resistance, making your workout more intense and challenging for your cardiovascular system. It can significantly increase calorie burn and strength over time.
