"What Type of Weighted Vest is Right for me?"
Even though there are many brands on the market for weighted vests, there are only a few specifics
that you need to worry about.
Weighted vests come in 3 basic models:
1. Solid Vest
This type of vest comes in one fixed weight and does not allow you to adjust it, in order to allow for progression.
Pro: Less expensive
Con: Limited in the variation of use and progression
2. Long Adjustable Vest
This vest straps around your body like all the others, but hangs down to the top of your hips.
Pro: Most comfortable fit and adjustable weights
Con: Length may interfere with some movements
3. Short Adjustable Vest
This weighted vest is just like the long version, but only straps around your chest area leaving your abs and lower back exposed.
Pro: Most freedom of movement and ability to adjust weight
Con: Creates more of a "top heavy" feel and may throw off balance
My personal recommendation is to stay clear of the very inexpensive vests, since they are made of cheaper materials and end up tearing after just a month or two of use. Look for a higher quality material that will wear well. Remember, you are going to be sweating and moving all around in it, so it has to fit right to be of any long-term use.
As far as the brands go, I would choose a vest based on the exercises and the way in which you will be using it the most. If you'll be doing a lot of rotational work, you may opt for the short. Likewise, if you want a more true to form feel, you may want to stick with the most common full length vest.
Lastly, I would definitely pick the adjustable versions over the fixed weighted vests. You need to ease into wearing this piece while exercising and will appreciate the ability to progress up in weight as your fitness level improves.
older posts
Posted by: tsirna | Sep 1, 2009 10:21:11 PM
looking for a weighted vest for walking and housework/daily activities raising 3 children under the age of 6yr. i am a women size 18 fairly active.
in future might use it on elpitical machine
what vest is best for me?? 3 choices
Posted by: Dave L | Jan 21, 2009 10:30:53 AM
www.ironwearfitness.com
THEY MAKE THE BEST WEIGHTED VESTS IN THE WORLD!
I bought one and love it. the 1/2lb weights are soft and flexible like a piece of rubber. the vest actually protects you like padding if you fall down! (unlike an iron bar vest). The quality is so much better than the hyper vest or the x vest. plus it came with a lifetime guarantee.
They have the great variety in weight vests too. i purchased the Cool Vest for walking and running, but they have all kinds of stuff. i have yet to see a vest that comes even close to Ironwears!
They just came out with a vest specifically for women. has anyone tried it? i'm probaly going to buy one for my wife.
Posted by: evan | Dec 10, 2008 8:22:19 PM
Im planning on getting a 90 pound vest for weight training.Short or long?
Posted by: Blake Gould | Sep 22, 2008 9:38:02 AM
There is a new weighted vest on the market call the "Hyper Vest" has anyone seen it? It was created in Austin, TX. It conforms to your body and you can even wear it under clothes at work! It comes loaded with 5 lbs (can go up to 40 depending on size of vest) so even if you're out of shape you can wear this to help burn calories. Check it out at www.hyper-wear.com
Posted by: Stephen Cabral | Sep 10, 2008 1:50:28 PM
Hi Matt,
The shorter, more compact vest will allow you a greater degree of mobility and flexiblity when climbing.
Good luck!
Posted by: matt | Sep 10, 2008 12:40:00 PM
Hey, a friend and I are planning to use weighted vests to improve our rock climbing. I want it to feel true to life, but I need it to allow for a wide range of movements. Should I go short or long?
Posted by: Scott Kautz | Feb 28, 2008 6:16:40 PM
Anyone looking for a great weight vest should go to www.hyper-wear.com
These vest are unlike any other.
Posted by: Steve Cabral | Jan 14, 2008 9:55:11 AM
Since they have become more mainstream, you should be able to find them at your local sporting goods store. You can also find them online at Power Systems and Perform Better.
Thanks for your comments-
Posted by: Sheila | Jan 13, 2008 6:18:47 PM
I don't know where I have been, but I have never heard of a weight vest. Where is the best place to purchase one?
