Best Weighted Vests for 2026: Plate Carriers and More to Add Weight to Your Workouts

At a Glance 

• Backpack design leaves chest free
• Integrated lumbar support
• Padded shoulder straps
• Made from durable Cordura fabric

The GORUCK Ruck Plate Carrier 3.0 takes our top spot for its added lumbar support and overbuilt durability as well as its range of variable weight plates to choose from. The Plate Carrier 3.0 is made primarily of heavy-duty Cordura fabric and has EVA foam padding in the lumbar region. The shoulder straps also contain EVA foam padding for comfort. 

“Everything about this vest feels well-made and super durable,” GGR editorial team member Amanda Dvorak, ISSA-CPT, ISSA-CNC, tells me. “The Velcro is super secure and the material of the vest is really thick and high-quality. I don’t feel like it would rip or tear anytime soon.”

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Versatility: 4/5

Durability: 5/5

Security & Performance: 4/5

Why We Like the GORUCK Ruck Plate Carrier 3.0

The GORUCK Ruck Plate Carrier 3.0 is certainly a unique weighted vest. Most weight vests intend to evenly distribute a load around your entire torso, preventing the weight from centering on your back. The Ruck Plate Carrier purposely centers the entire load on your back and leaves the chest and abdomen open. 

The backpack design adds breathability and optimizes mobility at your front because, well, there are no weight plates there. Centering the weight in your mid-back also promotes good posture by pulling the shoulder blades back and down. If you struggle to keep your chest up while wearing a regular weighted vest, the GORUCK Plate Carrier 3.0 could be a good option for you. 

This weighted vest comes in three sizes—Standard, Long, and Heavy—and it has an adjustable chest strap, earning it a 4 out of 5 for adjustability and comfort.

You will have to buy the plates separately; they come in 10, 20, or 30 pounds for the Standard carrier, and 30 or 45 pounds for the Long carrier (the Heavy profile can support up to 90 pounds). This is pretty typical when it comes to weighted vests, and with the Ruck Plate Carrier 3.0 listed at $115 (for the standard size), it’s a pretty good bargain even when factoring in the cost of the plates. This earned it a 4 out of 5 for weight capacity and versatility.

“It cost me about $175 for the vest and a 20-pound weight,” adds Amanda, “but I think it’s worth the price. It feels very durable and well-made.” As such, she rates the value a solid 4 out of 5.

Alternatives

Amanda noticed that the back of the vest doesn’t breathe too well. “My back would get pretty sweaty after walks with the vest on,” she recalls. “Even when I wore it on a cooler 65-degree morning, I still got pretty sweaty with it.” She did appreciate the free front and the breathability there, but noted that you’ll feel the weight (and heat) on your back, even with the added lumbar support.

The weighted vest isn’t machine-washable, either, so Amanda docked a point to rate the durability and construction at 4 out of 5. That said, the vest can be hosed down and scrubbed with soap, then hung to dry, according to GORUCK’s website.

If you want something equally as adjustable but prefer a more evenly distributed weight profile, we suggest opting for a plate carrier like the Rogue Plate Carrier.

Testing Breakdown

Our top overall pick exceeded benchmarks in all categories but one—breathability—which we feel is a fair trade-off for all the good that comes with the GORUCK Ruck Plate Carrier 3.0.

Vs. The Average

The GORUCK Ruck Plate Carrier 3.0 is significantly less expensive than average, yet holds its own in terms of adjustability and boasts a lifetime warranty.

At a Glance 

• Extremely durable build
• Tactical-inspired design
• Water-resistant 500D nylon
• Thick padded shoulder straps

The 5.11 TacTec Plate Carrier was, at one time, the best (and pretty much only option) if you wanted a high-quality weighted vest. It wasn’t initially meant for use as a fitness tool, but rather as a flak jacket to hold ballistic plates for operators in the military. 5.11 realized those ballistic plates could easily be replaced with steel plates for improving fitness. GGR founder Coop Mitchell explains, “Soon after its release, the TacTec Plate Carrier was repurposed by CrossFit athletes and has been used in countless CrossFit Games events, including the infamous Murph workout.” This solidifies its ranking as the best weighted vest for CrossFit. 

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Versatility: 4/5

Durability: 5/5

Breathability: 4/5

Why We Like the 5.11 TacTec Plate Carrier

Coop thinks the 5.11 weighted vest is a good option for CrossFit specifically because of its sheer durability. “This vest will last for years no matter how many insane CrossFit workouts you put it through,” he says. It’s also a great weighted vest for obstacle course races, such as Tough Mudders and Spartan Races, where your vest is sure to get beat up. It easily earned a perfect 5-out-of-5 score for durability—just one of two vests on our list to do so.

One specific feature of the 5.11 vest that Coop says he really likes is the strap design. The shoulder straps feature thick, foam-filled pads with mesh backing to allow for improved breathability. “I prefer the minimalist design of other plate carriers, but for extremely long rucking and training, the shoulders on the 5.11 vest will prove to be a bit more comfortable,” he says.  

On its own, the vest weighs just 2.5 pounds, but it’s designed to hold armor-style weight plates in both the front and back. The carrier also works with 5.11-branded plates and most similarly shaped weighted vest plates, which opens the door to a broad range of loading options (if you’re willing to invest in multiple plate sets). 

For instance, Rogue Fitness offers compatible plate sets in 5-, 7.5-, 10-, and 20-pound profiles, giving athletes the ability to add anywhere from 10 to 40 pounds in total.  Because you can easily tailor the resistance to your training needs while maintaining flexibility, we rated the TacTec Plate Carrier a solid 4 out of 5 for versatility..

Alternatives

The TacTec Plate Carrier is definitely one of the most “tacti-cool” looking weighted vests, but as Coop points out, that style means it has some unnecessary features that add to overall bulk, like the MOLLE panels and GrabDrag handle. Many athletes may prefer a more minimalist silhouette. Coop gives the TacTec Plate Carrier 3 out of 5 for comfort.

Additionally, the price is a bit high. The cost of just the vest is $250, and that doesn’t include shipping or the cost of the required weight plates. Though it’s worth the price for the right buyer (everything is), we had to rate the value at 3 out of 5 points. 

For a plate carrier weighted vest at a lower cost, check out the Rogue Plate Carrier, which retails for $165 (before adding the cost of weight plates).

Testing Breakdown

One of two weighted vests in our breakdown that earned a perfect score for durability, this abrasion-resistant vest is ideal for the high-impact, high-intensity nature of CrossFit.

Vs. The Average

The 5.11 TacTec Plate Carrier is quite expensive, but its lifetime warranty and exceptional durability justify the price for those who intend to get a lot of use out of it.

Read our full 5.11 TacTec Plate Carrier review for more tester insights and details.

At a Glance 

• Fits snug against the torso
• Unique stretchy fabric
• Reflective details for added on-road safety
• Adjustable weight up to 20 pounds

If you tend to avoid weighted vests because you haven’t found one with a secure fit that doesn’t bounce or jostle around while walking or jogging, you need to check out the Hyperwear Hyper Vest Elite Weighted Vest. In fact, this received a very high score for security and performance, coming in at 4 out of 5 stars from our product testers. GGR founder Cooper Mitchell tells me, “My favorite thing about this vest is that it feels more like a weighted T-shirt than an actual vest.” If that’s not what you want for running, we don’t know what is!

Adjustability: 4.5/5

Security & Performance: 4/5

Durability: 3.5/5

Why We Like the Hyperwear Hyper Vest Elite

Thanks to the lack of side panels, an elastic adjustment system, and tightly pocketed weight bars, this vest provides an ultra-contoured fit that hugs your body even during high-impact movements. The fabric is a thin Cordura that, in combination with the open sides, makes for a super breathable weighted vest. All of this led Coop to rate the Hyper Vest Elite with a nearly perfect 4.5-out-of-5 rating for adjustability and comfort. 

“Overall, I feel like the Hypervest Elite allows for more range of motion than most weight vests, which is ideal for anyone who regularly wears a weighted vest for running or high-intensity workouts with a lot of impacts,” Coop says. 

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He rates the versatility and weight capacity at 4 out of 5. The 20-pound maximum weight might be a bit light for some, but it will work for most people, even CrossFitters chasing RX workouts. “Other options allow for much higher weights, although this is a trade-off required for the shirt-like feeling,” Coop points out. It also has great weight distribution thanks to the small steel weights as opposed to a larger steel plate in front and back.

Alternatives

“I can foresee some problems with durability due to the fabric thickness and single-stitching,” Coop says, rating the durability a 3.5 out of 5. But after using it for about a year, he says it’s still holding up pretty well. Also, it’s not cheap. Priced between $200 and $400 depending on the exact weight and style, Coop says, “I would definitely make sure this is the type of weight vest you want before committing.” 

The Hyperwear Hyper Vest Elite is unique, but not everyone will enjoy the tight fit and contour. But for those who see it as a big bonus to not have to deal with weight shifting or shuffling during runs, box jumps, burpees, and the like, the value is solid at 3 out of 5.

There are few vests like this one on the market. Hyperwear does make a women’s-specific profile, though, for athletes interested in a more contoured fit: The Hyper Vest Fit.

Testing Breakdown

The Hyperwear Hyper Vest Elite scored well for adjustability and comfort, breathability, and security and performance, solidifying its place as the best weighted vest for running.

Vs. The Average

The Hyper Vest Elite has a smaller weight range than the typical weighted vest, but it’s an ideal range for running (as is the vest’s second-skin design).

Read our full Hyperwear Hyper Vest Elite review to learn more about what our tester thinks.

At a Glance 

• One size fits all
• 20-lb fixed weight
• Minimalist design
• Reflective details for nighttime walks

The specific weight vest design you see in the Fringe Sport WODMaster Weight Vest is ideal for walking and hiking long distances because it largely leaves the torso unobstructed, which can make for a much more breathable fit. “I like that Fringe Sport had the forethought to add reflective strips to this weight vest, knowing that many people go on their walks in the early morning before the sun comes up or in the evening after it’s set,” says GGR founder Coop Mitchell. Safety first! 

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Breathability: 4/5

Adjustability: 3/5

Security & Performance: 4/5

Why We Like the Fringe Sport WODmaster Weight Vest

Instead of covering the chest, abdomen, and entire back, this vest features a minimal profile that covers just the mid-back and traps, with two weighted straps that wrap from the front of the shoulders, across the pecs, and to the lats. The result is a comfortable, open fit that stays snug during long endurance workouts. 

Yes, the name is “WODMaster,” suggesting the vest is made for CrossFitters, but we like this design a lot for walking. “There are a lot of companies that make vests like this one, but in my experience, the Fringe Sport model is one of the best,” says Coop. “The way that the steel shot weights are actually stitched into the design means you won’t have issues with it flopping around or shifting, which is important while out walking long distances.” Accordingly, he rates it a 4 out of 5 for security and performance. 

This vest only comes in one size, but it has six adjustment points, so you shouldn’t have any problem adjusting the vest to get a good fit. Still, because it’s one-size-fits-all, we had to cap our adjustability and comfort rating at 3.5 out of 5. (Note: Fringe Sport says on the website that some vests may come with tags that say M/L or L/XL, but clarifies that they are all the same size).

Alternatives

Made primarily with neoprene, this isn’t the most durable weighted vest available, earning a 3.5 out of 5 score for the category. That said, if you’re only using it for walking, the construction and resiliency shouldn’t matter as much. We’re not sure how long the buckles and Velcro closures will last on this vest, but as a general rule, Velcro starts to fail after a while if it’s not of the highest quality. Just try to keep dirt and sweat out of the Velcro and you should be able to enjoy this weighted vest for years. 

The outer neoprene casing holds a tightly packed steel shot that’s held in place with double stitching. Unfortunately, you can’t remove or add any sand or steel shot, so this weight vest is fixed at 20 pounds. As such, we award it just 2 out of 5 points for weight capacity and versatility. 

For a great walking vest that also has adjustable weight, consider something like our top pick, the GORUCK Ruck Plate Carrier 3.0, which is designed specifically for long outdoor adventures.

Testing Breakdown

Though the Fringe Sport WODmaster weight vest could use some improvement in the versatility department, it can still be a great choice for those prioritizing security and breathability, evidenced by its high scores in those categories.

Vs. The Average

The Fringe Sport WODmaster Weight Vest costs about $140 less than the average weighted vest, making it a great choice for value-minded buyers.

At a Glance 

• Included weight bundles double as adjustable ankle weights
• Men’s (5–20 lbs) and women’s (5–15 lbs) options
• Reflective stripes for nighttime visibility
• Frequently discounted

If you’re just getting started with weighted vest workouts, the LifePro Weighted FlexVest offers an ideal mix of comfort, functionality, and versatility. GGR Director of Content Nicole Davis, CPT, PN1-NC, tested the 5- to 20-pound version, and rates adjustability and comfort at a perfect 5 out of 5. Another reason we chose LifePro as the best weighted vest for beginners is how much bang you get for your buck. Although it’s listed for about $65, you can often find it on sale for much cheaper on Amazon as well as the company’s website. Plus, the FlexVest comes with a lifetime warranty, which leads us to rate the price and value at 4 out of 5.

Security & Performance: 4/5

Adjustability: 5/5

Price & Value: 4/5

Why We Like the LifePro Weighted FlexVest with Ankle Weights

Featuring built-in storage pockets and a reflective trim for added visibility, this well-designed vest earns a strong materials and durability score of 4 out of 5. Plus, it’s covered by a lifetime warranty, which speaks to the overall quality. “The Velcro seems durable, and I’ve had no issues thus far,” Nicole reports.

LifePro also offers this weighted vest in a smaller 5- to 15-pound iteration, which may be preferable for smaller athletes. “The heavier version (5-20 pounds) fits me fine—it’s a bit big in the chest area but it’s not a huge deal since I can tighten the waist,” Nicole says in regards to the fit.

Nicole found the vest held up well during workouts, rating the security and performance at a rock-solid 4 out of 5. She docked one point because it jostles slightly during her runs, but she attributes that to the chest area being big on her. “For other women, I might recommend the 5- to 15-pound version since it may fit better throughout,” she explains.

Alternatives

Although LifePro says the FlexVest is made with sweat-resistant fabric, we docked a few points from the breathability score (3.5 out of 5) because Nicole still dealt with some minor moisture buildup. “I think it’s kind of inevitable, and I would not consider myself a heavy sweater,” she says. “It’s probably more breathable than something like canvas, so in comparison to other weight vests it might be better. Overall, though, I would not consider this sweat-wicking fabric.”

There aren’t a ton of weight options in terms of micro-adjustments. That said, the additional weights can also be used as ankle weights, instead, which just adds more versatility and value. So, despite it not being super-duper adjustable, it still earns 3 out of 5 for weight capacity and versatility.

Need something even less expensive? Our budget pick, the Zelus Weighted Vest, retails for as low as $25, depending on how much weight you’re looking for.

Testing Breakdown

The LifePro Weighted FlexVest exceeded our expectations for performance, value, and adjustability.

Vs. The Average

Far less expensive than average but still relatively adjustable (and backed by a lifetime warranty) the LifePro Weighted FlexVest is a great choice.

At a Glance 

• Designed for functional fitness
• Also great for rucking
• Reasonably priced
• Durable but comfortable

The Rogue Plate Carrier is our best-rated adjustable weighted vest largely due to its value proposition. As GGR founder Coop Mitchell explains, Rogue dwindled down all of the tactical elements you’d see for military and law enforcement use in their plate carrier and kept the features that matter most. “In a nutshell, you get a made-in-the-USA vest designed specifically for its ability to hold up to 40 pounds that’s extremely comfortable and priced very competitively,” he says. “It comes in three sizes and has adjustable Velcro straps to secure the vest to your liking. For most people, this is the best option for those reasons alone.”

Durability: 4.75/5

Value: 4.25/5

Versatility: 4/5

Why We Like the Rogue Plate Carrier

The Rogue weight vest is extremely compact, streamlined, and useful. It has everything you want and nothing you don’t (including no chafing, Coop points out). Most people use weight vests for running, bodyweight exercises, and general CrossFit-style workouts. “This is why I recommend the Rogue Plate Carrier; it’s good at all of the above,” Coop says, rating it a 4 out of 5 for versatility. 

It also offers extreme durability thanks to the Cordura fabric and reinforced stitching. Strategically placed padding and stretch-woven fabric keep you comfortable for long and intense workouts, which led to a 4.75 out of 5 score for materials and durability. “Somehow,” Coop adds, “It also manages to have a relaxed fit without compromising security.”

During everything from CrossFit-style workouts to running, Coop says the vest stayed secure without bouncing or shifting. It really shines during bodyweight movements like push-ups, pull-ups, and sit-ups, as it sits close to the torso and stays locked in place when cinched down properly.

Coop points out, too, that the minimalist design lends itself to great comfort, no matter what type of workout you’re doing. “After testing the vest firsthand, I found it to be quite comfortable overall. You’re definitely aware that you’re wearing a plate carrier, but the smooth contact points and extra padding beneath the plate pockets help prevent rubbing and make the added weight feel more natural,” he says. “It almost feels like moving with a heavier version of yourself rather than wearing bulky equipment.”

Alternatives

One minor drawback of the plate carrier is the shoulder strap design. They’re simple, unpadded straps, which may be fine for shorter training sessions but can become uncomfortable during longer, heavier rucks or when worn against bare skin. The good news, though, is that Rogue has introduced optional shoulder pads for under $20, which helps address this comfort issue. Still, it’s not necessarily something we think you should have to pay extra for. 

The Rogue Plate Carrier also lacks a little in the breathability department, earning 3.5 out of 5 points in the category. This is just an unfortunate fact of thick, military-spec Cordura fabrics. It’s a trade-off for durability and resistance to mildew and rot. However, the lack of side panels does help increase breathability. 

Looking for a plate carrier with ultra-comfortable straps for long days out on the trails? A good fit for you may be the GORUCK Ruck Plate Carrier 3.0; a backpack-style weighted vest with thick shoulder pads.

Testing Breakdown

One of our highest-scoring weighted vests overall, the Rogue Plate Carrier impressed our testers with excellent adjustability, durability, and performance.

Vs. The Average

The Rogue Plate Carrier is reasonably priced compared to similar options, and is rather adjustable for a plate carrier vest.

Read our full Rogue Plate Carrier review for everything you need to know about this weighted vest.

At a Glance 

• Weight options from 6 to 30 lbs
• Pricing starts under $30
• Reflective striping for nighttime outings
• More than a dozen color options

If you are looking for a simple, inexpensive way to add weight to your workouts, look no further than the Zelus weighted vest on Amazon. It’s a generic neoprene weighted vest—the type of which you can find dozens online—but I snagged it when it was on sale and I’ve been thoroughly impressed with the fit and performance of this budget home gym equipment. I got the 30-pound option for $75 (list price is $100) and I’d buy it again in a heartbeat. 

Durability: 3.5/5

Breathability: 5/5

Adjustability: 4/5

Why We Like the Zelus Weighted Vest

I bought the Zelus weighted vest because I lived and traveled in a camper van for two years and needed a way to add more weight to my workouts without taking up a ton of space—if you’re not familiar, camper van living spaces max out at about 40 square feet. Well, this vest did the trick. I wore it to increase the challenge of basic bodyweight exercises like squats and lunges, as well as build strength through weighted plyometric exercises. 

I found the vest to be quite comfortable despite its low price point, and it earned a 4 out of 5 for adjustability and comfort in my book. Even the 30-pound model doesn’t dig in at the shoulders, and with multiple points of adjustment, it can fit a range of body shapes and sizes. I will say, it’s a little loose on me even (I’m 5’6”, 145 pounds) with all of the straps pulled as tight as possible, so petite athletes may want to look elsewhere. 

The design of the vest also makes it very breathable, enough so that I give it 5 out of 5 points in that category. When it’s on, most of my torso remains unobstructed by any fabric, as do my sides. The bulk of the vest sits against the upper back, where some sweat buildup is inevitable but surprisingly tolerable.  

Alternatives

The weight on the Zelus vest is fixed, so make sure you’re sure about which one you want to buy. There are tons of options—6, 8, 12, 16, 20, 25, and 30 pounds—so I still rated the vest’s versatility and weight capacity at a 3 out of 5. You could, theoretically, buy multiple, but you’d end up paying the equivalent of a good adjustable vest.

Additionally, the material is okay, but not fantastic, lending itself to a 3.5-point score for durability. This vest will hold up fine if you’re just walking and doing general strength workouts at home, but the fabric is susceptible to abrasions during movements like burpees or rope climbs. 

If you’re looking for something adjustable that’s still on the lower end of the price range, the LifePro Weighted FlexVest with Ankle Weights can be a good choice.

Testing Breakdown

Despite its budget-friendly price tag, the Zelus weighted vest doesn’t fall short when it comes to adjustability, durability, or breathability.

Vs. The Average

The price for the Zelus Weighted Vest varies, but falls below the industry average regardless of the weight you choose. It’s unfortunately not adjustable, but we do appreciate the slightly longer-than-average warranty.

At a Glance 

• Fits like a weighted shirt
• Secure to the body
• Easy to clean
• Available in two sizes

The Omorpho G-Vest+ isn’t something we’d recommend for everyone, especially because of its high price point, but it’s a great option for people who aren’t concerned with budget and are looking for high-performance weighted clothing. As GGR founder Cooper Mitchell puts it, “Not only does it look better than most weighted vests, it also has a tag that can be scanned to access workout sessions you can do with the vest.” It’s a premium product for a premium price and can be worthwhile to the right athletes.

Durability: 4.5/5

Security & Performance: 5/5

Value: 3.5/5

Why We Like the OMORPHO G-Vest+

The biggest difference between this and other options on this list is the aesthetic. It’s more sleek and modern looking than most other weight vests, which appears to be a large portion of the points with OMORPHO weighted clothing. We do admit, it looks cool (and you’ll probably feel cool wearing it). 

But aesthetics aren’t all this vest is good for. It has a ventilated design with adjustable shoulder straps and locking side cords, so it will feel comfortable no matter how sweaty you get and it can be fitted to your exact measurements. This earns the vest a 4 out of 5 for adjustability and comfort.

Plus, though Coop had some concerns about the longevity of the micro weights at first, they have shown no sign of wear and tear, even after hours of sweat-inducing workouts. For that, he rated the durability a 4.5 out of 5.

“Do I like and recommend it? It depends,” Coop says. “The cost is high, which could price people out when there are much more affordable options on the market. But for athletes looking to get 1% better, this micro-weight system is like striking gold.”

Alternatives

What the OMORPHO vest primarily lacks is weight capacity and versatility, earning just 1 out of 5 points in that category. There are two sizes (Small to Medium and Large to Extra-Large) and the weight for both is on the lighter side—8 pounds ,12 ounces and 9 pounds, 14 ounces, respectively. “That’s not as heavy as some of our other options, but it will still provide a challenge if worn during bodyweight or calisthenic workouts,” Coop says.

Additionally, this vest is pricey.  While it still earned 3.5 out of 5 points for value due to its premium materials and unique build, its $300 price tag is certainly not within reach for all athletes.

If you need more weight capacity and a lower price, we recommend the Zelus Weighted Vest, which has options ranging from 6 to 30 pounds for $25 to $100.

Testing Breakdown

The OMORPHO G-Vest+ wowed our testers with its durability and performance, making up for its lackluster versatility score.

Vs. The Average

The OMORPHO G-Vest+ is pricey, without question. Between that and its fixed, lower weights, it’s a niche product we recommend only for premium-minded buyers.

Our tester divulges all the details on this vest in our OMORPHO Weighted Clothing review.

At a Glance 

• Patented design specifically for women
• Thin Cordura fabric construction
• Elastic side closure plus front zipper
• Adjustable weight

Another pick from Hyperwear, the Hyper Vest Fit was designed specifically for women. The vest consolidates all the weight into the abdomen and back, leaving the chest panels free of added weight. I personally tested this weighted vest and even after years of trying additional options, I maintain that this is a solid choice for any woman looking to add a bit of weight to their walks, runs, hikes, or bodyweight workouts.

Security & Performance: 4.5/5

Adjustability: 3/5

Breathability: 5/5

Why We Like the Hyperwear Hyper Vest Fit

This vest uses a steel shot enclosed in hard plastic casings, which I think is a phenomenal improvement over fabric-encased steel shots. There’s way less of a chance that you’ll experience spilled or leaked steel shot with the plastic weights. They weigh half a pound each. The slots for them in the vest begin just beneath the sternum area, and the vest can hold up to 10 pounds.  

The Hyper Vest Fit has open side panels with adjustable elastic closures. It’s made of Cordura fabric with one-way stretch to minimize bouncing and shifting. I personally like the material; it feels nice and high-quality but is kind of stretchy, making it more comfortable than stiff plate carriers made with military-spec nylon textiles. 

While I think it’s durable enough for most cases—walking, running, general strength training, etc.—it definitely doesn’t seem as durable as a mil-type plate carrier. It could definitely snag if you were trail running in an overgrown area, for example. I give it 3.75 out of 5 for durability (partially bolstered by the fact that it’s machine-washable, which is a major bonus).

Alternatives

I don’t love that this weighted vest only goes up to 10 pounds. The standard prescribed weight for CrossFit workouts is a 14-pound weighted vest for women, so this one won’t do for any RX CrossFit ladies. That said, it is still quite adjustable, so it earns 3.5 out of 5 points for weight capacity and versatility.

Another callout: This vest isn’t cheap, especially for its lower weight capacity of 10 pounds. It earns a 3 for value, though, given its solid design that has all the right features for certain athletes; namely, women who run. 

If you love the style of this vest but need more than 10 pounds, check out the Hyperwear Hyper Vest Elite, which goes up to 20 pounds.

Testing Breakdown

Our tester was impressed by the adjustability and comfort of the Hyperwear Hyper Vest Fit, as well as the security, performance, and breathability.

Vs. The Average

Though highly adjustable with small weight increments, the Hyper Vest Fit is best suited for individuals who want a lighter-weight vest since it tops out at 10 pounds.

At a Glance 

• Loadable up to 300 pounds
• Unique Olympic plate-loaded design
• Great for straight-set weight training
• Weights not included

If you’re so strong that a 40-pound weighted vest won’t suffice, we have you covered. For those looking for a weighted vest to use for more strength training than conditioning, we recommend the Kensui EZ-Vest Weight Vest. “The Kensui EZ-Vest is the most unique weighted vest in our breakdown and likely one of the most unique in the world,” says GGR founder Cooper Mitchell. Its ability to load up to 300 pounds easily secures its title as the best heavy weighted vest. 

Note: Kensui has multiple EZ-Vest models; the Max is the one that supports a load of 300 pounds.

Versatility: 4.75/5

Breathability: 4/5

Security & Performance: 3/5

Why We Like the Kensui EZ-Vest

What separates this Kensui vest from every other weighted vest on the market is its method of resistance. Rather than using small steel plates made to fit into the sleeve of the vest, the Kensui EZ-Vest uses Olympic weight plates, increasing the max weight capacity compared to standard vests and earning this 4.75 out of 5 stars from our expert product testers. 

In addition to the benefit of a higher weight capacity, this also means that instead of buying new steel weight plates to fit your vest, you just use the weight plates you already have in your home gym. So, not only can you use more weight, you don’t have to pay extra to do so, either. As such, our testers still gave it 4.25 out of 5 points for value.

Where the EZ-Vest shines is in its ability to progressively overload pull-ups, dips, push-ups, and other calisthenic movements. This is very difficult to do with other vests or belts, but the EZ-Vest is great for just this purpose.

The ease of using the system is handy, as well. The plate sleeves feature a locking nut that is easy to hand tighten and stays pretty tight. The sleeves are removable, too, in case you’re doing push-ups and want weight on the back.

Alternatives

The Kensui vest has a unique design that does not work for all kinds of workouts. Despite its 4.75 out of 5 score for weight capacity and versatility—which it rightfully earned due to its loading capacity—we recognize that it’s not the right vest for runners, CrossFitters, or others who do high-impact movements. 

Coop adds, “Although the weight capacity is high, that doesn’t mean it’s incredibly comfortable at those weight increments. Using 45-pound plates on the vest does feel a bit awkward as they can get in front of your chin and bounce a bit. This type of vest will just never have the same weight distribution as a plate carrier.”

Also, note that this vest requires you to purchase weight plates separately, adding to the overall cost.

For a weighted vest that works for a variety of workout types, a plate carrier is likely your best bet. We like the 5.11 TacTec Plate Carrier for CrossFit and similar workouts.

Testing Breakdown

The Kensui plate-loaded vest scored high across all categories, with the exception of security and performance. Due to its (intentional) design, it’s not suitable for running or plyometric exercises.

Vs. The Average

The Kensui EZ-Vest is more expensive than average, but should prove well worth it for athletes who are serious about training calisthenics with weight. 

Find out more about what our tester thinks in our Kensui EZ-Vest Weighted Vest review.