Best Ankle Weights (2024): Easy And Affordable Way to Build Your Legs

Although a pair of ankle weights might not replace the versatility of the best adjustable dumbbells, if you’re on a budget (or new to fitness), why not start building your home gym with some small, bite-size investments?

Ankle weights can offer beginners and high-rep enthusiasts a way to train the lower body with minimal sticker shock. As a certified personal trainer, I see ankle weights useful for hamstring curls, quad extensions, glute-building exercises, and single-leg movements. The best ankle weights don’t slide or chafe, which is why we had to get hands-on experience to see which ones are cut out for a recommendation from your favorite expert product testers here at Garage Gym Reviews. 

7 Best Ankle Weights 

• Best Overall Ankle Weights: Sportneer Adjustable Ankle Weights
• Best Ankle Weights for Beginners: GAIAM Restore Ankle Weights
• Best Ankle Weights for Comfort: Nike 5-lb Ankle Weights
• Best Budget Ankle Weights: BONA Fitness Ankle Weights
• Best Heavy Ankle Weights: The Cuff Original Ankle Weight
• Best Light Ankle Weights: Theraband Ankle Weights
• Best Adjustable Ankle Weights: Synergee Adjustable Ankle Weights

Best Overall Ankle Weights: Sportneer Adjustable Ankle Weights

Good for: Folks looking for a solid ankle weight with removable weights

Best Overall

Sportneer Adjustable Ankle Weights

GGR Score: 3.9

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Product Highlights

• Removable weights
• Adjustable from 2-10 pounds
• Comes in pairs
• Fabric fastener closure
• Neoprene exterior material
• Reinforced stitching

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Easy-to-use closure
• Variety of colorways
• Adjustable weight
• One-size-fits-all design

Cons

• Not ideal for experienced lifters
• Limited amount of weight
• Adjusting weight pouches can be difficult

Bottom Line

The Sportneer Adjustable Ankle Weights are an ideal choice for folks looking for adjustability up to 10 pounds per ankle. The soft pouches of weight are a little tricky to get in and out of the designated slots, but once you get them in place, you can adjust from 2 to 10 pounds, by increments of two.

The Sportneer adjustable ankle weights make it to our top pick for best ankle weights for three reasons: They are adjustable, affordable, and durable. This pair of ankle weights is priced at $29.99 on Amazon and comes in a variety of colors. 

We also like the fact you can adjust the weight anywhere from one to 5 pounds on each ankle weight. The wearable weight is constructed from a soft and breathable neoprene material and features small cylindrical pouches where you can adjust the removable weight—each weighing just under one pound each. 

From my experience testing these ankle weights, I found the weight changing process to be fairly easy but I found the best practice for adding weight back to the ankle strap was to take the ankle weight off and lay it flat on the ground. The Velcro closure makes it easy to take on and off quickly. 

It’s basically like putting a heavy (but tiny) sandbag back into a neoprene case. It’s not impossible, but you’ll need some patience. It’s also worth noting that the neoprene material doesn’t have an official closure over each adjustable section. Each section stays in place with a fabric hood.

RELATED: Best Workout Sandbag

Best Ankle Weights for Beginners: GAIAM Restore Ankle Weights

Good for: Beginners seeking wearable weights for home workouts 

Best for Beginners

GAIAM Restore Ankle Weights

GGR Score: 3.4

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Product Highlights

• Sold in pairs
• Available in 5-lb or 2.5-lb sets 

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Soft, flexible design
• Reinforced stitching

Cons

• Fabric fastener closure doesn't have hook-and-loop reinforcement
• Limited one-size-fits-most option

Bottom Line

The GAIAM Restore Ankle Weights are a solid choice for anyone looking for comfortable and soft material that won’t lead to chafing on the ankles. These come in pairs and are available in 5-pound or 2.5-pound options.

The GAIAM Restore ankle weights are ideal for beginners and feature soft material that won’t cause chafing or irritation during home workouts. They are sold in pairs and come in 2.5- or 5-pound sets, which makes them a solid choice for anyone who’s looking to add resistance to an established bodyweight fitness routine. 

I tested the GAIAM ankle weights in the 5-pound-per-ankle option and found them to stay tight around my ankles and feel soft on my skin. These wearable weights will be an ideal addition for a beginner learning fundamental movements like squats and lunges. 

RELATED: 6-Week Beginner Workout Plan

On Amazon the product description notes that these GAIAM ankle weights feature adjustable straps, but let me give you the real insight: There is a rather large area featuring a fabric fastener on either end of the ankle weight, but there is no adjustable strap or buckle closure to pull this pair of ankle weights tighter around your leg. 

When you put the GAIAM ankle weights on, basically just stick the two fabric fastener tabs together. I will admit these tabs are fairly large and strong, but I thought it was misleading that the word “adjustable” was used to describe the closure. 

Best Ankle Weights for Comfort: Nike 5-lb Ankle Weights

Good for: Folks who are willing to spend a little more for a comfortable-fitting ankle weight

Best for Comfort

Nike 5-lb Ankle Weights

GGR Score: 3.7

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Product Highlights

• Soft, flexible ankle weights
• Sold as pairs
• Fabric fastener closure 
• Moisture-wicking liner

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Super flexible and comfortable
• Made from iron
• Easy to take on and off

Cons

• Expensive
• Not adjustable

Bottom Line

The Nike 5-lb Ankle Weights are non-adjustable but offer a soft, flexible design that is easy to take on and off for workouts. Although this design does not feature a hook-and-loop closure, the fabric fastener is strong and sturdy enough to withstand walking, jumping, and bodyweight movements. The soft material also won’t chafe or irritate your skin while you move.

The Nike 5-lb ankle weights might not offer different weights to choose from, but you will have the most comfortable fit as far as ankle weights are concerned. 

I tested eight different ankle weights and my overall consensus was that they’re bulky and awkward (especially if each ankle weight weighs 5 pounds or more). That said, this pair of Nike ankle weights has a contoured shape, slimmer profile, and offers a secure fit. 

When walking around or using the Nike ankle weights for lower body exercises (like lateral lunges, side-lying leg raises, and glute kickbacks) these were the most comfortable and least bulky. They also feature a strong fabric fastener tab on either end of the ankle weight and a moisture-wicking liner. 

RELATED: What Muscles Do Lunges Work

The one downside I see to these Nike ankle weights is the fact they are $45 at Dick’s Sporting Goods. This is one of the most expensive pairs of ankle weights on this roundup, but if you’ve tried ankle weights in the past and remember not liking them due to their bulky nature, I’d recommend giving these a try. 

Best Budget Ankle Weights: BONA Fitness Ankle Weights

Good for: Anyone looking for a lightweight pair of ankle weights for under $25

Best Budget

BONA Fitness Ankle Weights

GGR Score: 3.2

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Product Highlights

• 1.5-lb ankle weights 
• Sold in pairs
• Reflective trim
• Stretchy lycra material

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Secure hook-and-loop closure
• Soft material
• Reflective trim

Cons

• Weight is not adjustable
• Limited resistance

Bottom Line

The BONA Fitness Ankle Weights are ideal for seniors or beginners looking to add resistance to walking or bodyweight exercise. The 1.5-pound weight of each ankle offers three pounds of total resistance for exercise. The reflective trim is a standout feature on these ankle weights if you’re looking for additional visibility at dawn or dusk.

The first thing we like about the BONA Fitness Ankle Weights is the fact they are under $25 on Amazon and often go on sale for less than that. Plus, these ankle weights feature a reflective trim at the top and bottom of the ankle strap to give additional visibility for anyone planning to wear these outside. 

When testing these BONA ankle weights I also came to like the breathable material and flexible design. They are easy to get on, off, and secure around your ankle with a fabric fastener strap and a metal buckle closure for adjustability. 

With the weight of these BONA ankle weights set to 1.5 pounds each, this set is ideal for beginners, seniors, or folks returning to exercise from an injury. This light load around the ankles is not ideal for experienced gym folks who train with barbells, dumbbells, and kettlebells. 

That said, I found these adjustable enough in size to use them as wrist weights and perform upper body prehab and some of the best warm up exercises for full-body workouts. 

Best Heavy Ankle Weights: The Cuff Original Ankle Weight

Good for: Folks looking for heavier weight options in the ankle weight arena 

Best Heavy

CanDo The Cuff Original Adjustable Ankle and Wrist Weight

GGR Score: 3.4

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Product Highlights

• Ankle weights ranging from ¼-lb to 25 lbs
• Sold as an individual ankle weight or in sets

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Wide range of weight options
• Durable vinyl materials
• Easy to clean or disinfect
• Double stitching for reinforcement
• Durable and secure fabric fastener closure

Cons

• Not all options are sold as pairs
• Vinyl material not super comfortable
• More expensive than similar items

Bottom Line

The Cuff is an ankle weight that is designed to hold up to a lot of use. It’s constructed from a vinyl material and has reinforced double stitching. There is even a metal grommet that allows you to hang your ankle weight when not in use. Note that these are sold individually and in sets, so be sure you know which option you are choosing at checkout.

If you are someone looking for ankle weights with heavier loads, The Cuff ankle weight might be the option for you. Before we get into the details, I think it’s worth mentioning that unless you select a set of ankle weights from the Amazon purchasing options, you’ll have one lone ankle weight show up at your door. This is the only brand I tested that was not sold in pairs. 

The Cuff is definitely geared toward folks looking to use heavier weights with options going all the way up to 25 pounds. I ordered an 8-pound ankle weight and right away noticed the strong fabric strap for the fastener. It worked well, but I can imagine that on heavier weight options the ankle weight staying in place with one strap could get a little precarious. 

RELATED: What is Resistance Training?

I appreciate the vinyl outer material, which is durable and will certainly hold up to wear and tear for home gyms or commercial gyms alike. I also like the fact the vinyl is easier to wipe down and clean compared to other ankle weights featuring neoprene or lycra. 

Best Light Ankle Weights: Theraband Ankle Weights

Good for: Exercisers looking for lighter options for wearable ankle weights

Best Light

Theraband Ankle Weights

GGR Score: 3.2

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Product Highlights

• Three different weight options
• Soft and flexible
• Neoprene and terry cloth materials
• Adjustable buckle strap closure

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable fit
• Non-abrasive materials
• Secure closure
• Ideal for seniors or beginners

Cons

• Fixed weight
• Limited resistance

Bottom Line

The Theraband Ankle Weights are sold in pairs and come in a selection of 1 pound, 1.5 pounds, or 2.5 pounds. Dimensions vary slightly depending on what weight you select. These also feature a neoprene exterior material with a terry cloth interior material that will help absorb moisture and prevent chafing.

Theraband Ankle Weights come in as our top pick for light ankle weights because you can find them in 1-, 1.5-, or 2-pound increments per ankle. 

Regardless of which weight you choose, you’ll have an adjustable fabric fastener strap that loops securely through a metal D-ring to adjust to your desired tightness. Although dimensions vary depending on which size you choose, I had no problem securing the pair of 2.5-pound weights into place. 

You may also like knowing the fabric on the inside of the ankle weights is lined with soft terry cloth so you won’t have to worry about chafing. 

Similar to the BONA ankle weights, these Theraband wearable weights also feature a reflective that is stitched around the trim of the ankle weight for added visibility. I will also mention that I didn’t mind how the Theraband felt around my ankles—it wasn’t too bulky or uncomfortable. I’m also not surprised because they weigh a little less than most of the other ankle weights I tested.  

Best Adjustable Ankle Weights: Synergee Adjustable Ankle Weights 

Good for: Anyone looking for a heavy-duty adjustable weight for the ankles 

Best Adjustable

Synergee Adjustable Ankle Weights

GGR Score: 3.6

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Product Highlights

• Adjustable ankle weights
• Sold in pairs
• Available in 2.5-, 5-, or 10-lb pairs
• Two fabric fastener straps closures with D-rings

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Adjustable weight
• Heavier loads available
• Affordable
• Long 10.5” straps

Cons

• Weight can be difficult to adjust
• Bulky
• Website advertises total weight, not per ankle

Bottom Line

The Synergee Adjustable Ankle Weights give you the option to adjust your weight depending on the exercise you’re performing. The set can also be secure around your arms for additional versatility. These ankle weights feature two sturdy 10.5-inch fabric fastener straps with a hook-and-loop closure for an extra-secure fit.

The Synergee Adjustable Ankle Weights feature removable weights so you can make adjustments depending on who is using them and what exercises you’re doing. 

You can choose from 2.5, 5, or 10 pounds per ankle and depending which weight you choose the removable weights will have different removable increments (0.5, 1, and 2 pounds respectively). 

Although I appreciate the fact this pair of Synergee ankle weights offered a heavier load than other ankle weights I tested, it was one of the bulkiest pairs of wearable weights I used. That said, I made several adjustments on the removable weights and found I have the best fit when one section is removed. 

I will also mention that the website is slightly confusing with how the weight options are labeled. The brand is featuring the total weight, not the weight per ankle. I thought I was ordering 10-pound ankle weights per leg but it turns out it was 5 pounds per ankle. 

Personally, I think that’s totally OK. I’m not sure I really want a 10-pound ankle weight per leg for the glute exercises I did throughout the ankle weight testing process.

Other Ankle Weights We Researched and Tested

We ordered and tested the seven top picks we featured in this roundup plus two other brands. 

All Pro Ankle Weights: Although these adjustable weights were the easiest to slide in and out of the ankle straps, this product is currently unavailable on Amazon. 

Bala Bangles: We didn’t feature these ankle weights because they cost a whopping $65 for a pair of 2-pound ankle weights. The Bala brand has gained popularity because the founders were on the TV show Shark Tank and TikTok influencers have been blowing up feeds with “hot girl walks” and booty exercises. 

How We Picked and Tested

As with most of our roundups, we start our research online to see what ankle weights are on the market, which ones are seemingly popular, and which ones are actually worth testing. 

From there, we narrowed down our list to eight different ankle weights. I personally ordered and tested each weight on this list with short bouts of walking, squats, lunges, hamstring curls (standing and lying), seated quad extensions, and a smattering of other glute-focused exercises. 

RELATED: Glute Exercises At Home

From there, I made note of how each pair of ankle weights performed and listed any callouts I had as well. 

Benefits of Ankle Weights

While you can use ankle weights for cardio exercise, there is not a ton of research supporting the benefits of wearing ankle weights to improve aerobic performance or overall calorie expenditure. 

That said, here are the top two benefits we see of using ankle weights in your strength training workout routine: 

Ideal for Beginners

Because ankle weights offer low resistance loads, you can use them to help you begin your journey with resistance training and target the muscle groups in the lower body. You can also use ankle weights for physical therapy rehabilitation exercises.  

Affordable Strength Training Option

If you’re starting off on the home gym building process, ankle weights are a simple, affordable, and effective way to add resistance to your workouts (much like the best resistance bands). Ankle weights provide an accessible method to train your glutes, hamstrings, and quads with exercises like glute kickbacks (aka donkey kicks), standing hamstring curls, or seated quad extensions. 

Improve Balance

You can absolutely improve your balance without resistance or extra weight, but once you’ve mastered certain movements, you may need to add load to keep improving your overall strength. 

Ankle weights can help you add resistance to single-leg exercises that help you improve balance (like step-ups, single-leg lifts, or single-leg deadlifts).

Buying Guide to the Best Ankle Weights

Before you click “add to cart,” here are the top three things to consider: 

Weight Options

For most folks, 5-pounds per ankle weight or less will do the trick. If you’re on the fence between weight options, having adjustable or removable weights gives you flexibility to add or remove weights for different exercises or as you progress over time. 

Comfort and Fit

When it comes to ankle weights, the ideal fit will be snug around your ankle without limiting movement flexion of the foot. We suggest double-checking measurements before buying to ensure the ankle weights won’t be too big or too small. Additionally, adjustable straps and closures will offer the most customization when it comes fit. 

Lastly, soft materials like terry cloth, neoprene, or lycra will provide the most comfort and are the least likely to cause chafing and skin irritation. 

Durability and Quality

To ensure your ankle weight will hold up to regular use, be sure to look for reinforced stitching, strong fasteners, and high-quality materials. 

Best Ankle Weights FAQs

Lauren Strong, CPT

Lauren is an NSCA-Certified Personal Trainer working with clients of all ages and skill levels. She specializes in coaching the squat, bench, and deadlift and enjoys introducing beginners to barbell training. Before becoming certified, she worked in marketing roles after graduating from the University of Maine with a BA in Journalism. Writing for Garage Gym Reviews blends her two passions: writing and lifting. Lauren spends her leisure time in the kitchen, reading fiction, and taking nature walks. She's also an avid downhill skier, learning how to ski when she was just two years old. She lives in Maine with her husband and two cats.

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