The best weighted vests in the UK 2023

The weighted vest or weighted jacket is a very popular piece of equipment to accompany physical activities. It gives you the possibility to amplify the intensity of your efforts while increasing the benefits of your workouts. The result? You'll burn more calories and work on your cardio and endurance. Whether you are an amateur or a high level athlete, find your weighted vest with this guide!

Weighted vest for bodybuilding and cross training 1
9/10

Best value for money

Weighted vest for bodybuilding and cross training

The best weighted vest in 2021

This weighted bodybuilding and cross training vest is perfect to have more endurance and quickly progress in training. It allows you to choose between a load of 6 to 10 kg.

40 £ on Decathlon

This is a very sturdy vest with perfect stitching. It won't tear even if you increase the loads. At the base, the vest itself weighs 6 kg and you can add up to 4 loads of 1 kg each. It provides complete freedom of movement and can be fully secured to your body with the straps and hooks. This vest is ideally used for weight training, muscle strengthening or cross training. You can gradually increase the difficulty of your workouts to better assess your progress.

The weighted bodybuilding and cross training vest has a particular design, guaranteeing its performance. It is made of steel buckle, polyoxymethylene foam, polyethylene, polyester and polypropylene. To maintain it, it is necessary a simple air drying after each use. This vest is not resistant to washing, laundering, ironing, let alone tumble drying or dry cleaning.

Weighted vest for bodybuilding 2
8/10

Best value for money

Weighted vest for bodybuilding

The best cheap weighted vest

To intensify the exercises intended to increase the muscular mass, this weighted vest will satisfy you. It is adapted to all morphologies and it is one of the most affordable weighted vests on the market.

20 £ on Decathlon

Despite its mixed character, this weighted vest is perfectly adjustable, which allows it to suit all body types. You will benefit from a total freedom in your movements since your chest as well as your shoulders will be well released. In addition to that, the height of the strap is adjustable. The vest weighs 4 kg and you can add 1 kg paddles at a time to have the weight you want.

There are three possible ways to adjust this weighted vest: on the height, at the chest and at the shoulder strap. It is padded with 67% scrap metal supplemented with 33% sand buckle. Regarding the material of the vest itself, you have polyoxymethylene and polyester. As for maintenance, you only need to let it air dry. It is suitable for both men and women.

Sveltus PRO Weighted Vest 3
9/10

Best value for money

Sveltus PRO Weighted Vest

The best high-end weighted vest

This weighted vest is suitable for both individuals and professionals. It is a high-end product whose quality is not lacking. The weight is well distributed in the vest for a comfortable use.

129 £ on Amazon

This jacket has been manufactured with great care. It is a quality product that you will be able to use for many years without any problem. It is possible to combine it with a load of 15 kg. The load is variable, so it depends on your goals. This vest will hold very close to your body so that there is no flapping when you jump.

The load is distributed evenly throughout the vest, both front and back. The quality is good. This is the model par excellence if you want to do fitness and weight training in the right conditions. When delivered, you will have two plates of 2.5 kg and two plates of 4 kg. As for the adjustment, you can do it at the level of your shoulders, the plates and the size.

Capital Sports Monstervest Weighted Jacket 4
9/10

Excellent selection

Capital Sports Monstervest Weighted Jacket

Alternative quality

This is an excellent quality training vest. By using it, you will gain strength and endurance. It is compatible with all physical activities related to bodybuilding and muscle mass increase.

79,99 £ on Amazon

In terms of versatility, this is a training vest universally recognized as one of the best models. You can wear it comfortably during your workouts, either close to your body. It is adjustable and has a hook and loop closure. This vest is also suitable for all body types. It allows you to perform different types of physical exercises without difficulty.

There are pockets on the front and back of the vest. More specifically, there are up to 20 pockets on the outside. Thus, you can distribute the weights evenly. This vest, made of nylon and plastic, can accommodate up to 30 kg. Moreover, it has soft padding and this is one of the reasons why it is easy to wear.

Buying guide • November 2023

Best weighted vest

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The best weighted vest in 2021

The best cheap weighted vest

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Alternative quality

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Comparison table of the best weighted vests

Top of the Top Inexpensive Top of the line Excellent
Weighted vest for bodybuilding and cross training 5
9/10
Weighted vest for bodybuilding 6
8/10
Sveltus PRO Weighted Vest 7
9/10
Capital Sports Monstervest Weighted Jacket 8
9/10
OUR SELECTION
Weighted vest for bodybuilding and cross training
Weighted vest for bodybuilding
Sveltus PRO Weighted Vest
Capital Sports Monstervest Weighted Jacket
This weighted bodybuilding and cross training vest is perfect to have more endurance and quickly progress in training. It allows you to choose between a load of 6 to 10 kg.
To intensify the exercises intended to increase the muscular mass, this weighted vest will satisfy you. It is adapted to all morphologies and it is one of the most affordable weighted vests on the market.
This weighted vest is suitable for both individuals and professionals. It is a high-end product whose quality is not lacking. The weight is well distributed in the vest for a comfortable use.
This is an excellent quality training vest. By using it, you will gain strength and endurance. It is compatible with all physical activities related to bodybuilding and muscle mass increase.
Comfort
Vest weight
6 kg
5 kg
2 kg
2.4 kg
Maximum weight
10 kg
-
15 kg
30 kg
Dimensions
-
0 plate
55 x 42 x 12 cm
41.5 x 55 x 8.5 cm
Number of plates
4 plates of 1 kg
2 plates of 2.5 kg and 2 plates of 4 kg
30 plates of 920 g

Help us improve this table:
Report an error, request the addition of a feature to the table, or suggest another product. Thank you for your kindness!

Buying guide - weighted vest

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How to choose your weighted vest

The model of weighted vest that you wear has a great influence on the achievement of your goals. It is for this reason that it is necessary to impose some restrictions during its choice. In all, there are five essential points to consider when choosing a weighted vest that corresponds to your needs.

#1 - The weight of the vest

In general, a bodybuilding vest weighs between 5 and 30 kg, depending on the number of weights attached to it. The total weight of the vest then depends on each user and the goal he sets for his workouts. However, it is always better to buy a vest that can support several weights. This way, you don't have to buy another vest as you progress. If you are just starting out, it is always a good idea to start with a lightweight vest. For women, a 5 kg weight vest is suitable while a 10 kg vest is more suitable for men.

#2 - The attachment system

The attachment device is the element that secures the vest to the body so that it does not move when you make movements. Thus, it is better if the fastener is easy to make and unmake. The goal is that it should not be cumbersome or a hindrance when you put on the vest.

#3 - The comfort of use

To make the vest comfortable to use, there are three major points to consider.

  • The padding should be checked. It should be perfectly distributed throughout the vest, especially in the shoulders, stomach and back.
  • The model in question should have a gel lining. This will allow you to be completely comfortable when you use it.
  • Models with nylon belts should be preferred. They support the ease of your movements.

#4 - The finishes of the vest

For the finishing touches, you need to look at the quality of the seams. This is very important because the vest will be subjected to hard use when you want to make complicated movements. So, the finish of its seams should be sturdy enough to prevent them from coming loose in the middle of a workout. Weights should not slip out of the vest, no matter what you do. You should also check the quality of the fabric. For example, the reinforced nylon will be adequate complement for the difficult movements. It is also durable and washable.

#5 - The versatility of the vest

The weighted vest to be preferred is the one with several pockets to put accessories like music player or phone. You don't have to put accessories in your pocket, it's more convenient. In addition, if you are used to exercising at night, it is preferable that the vest has reflective strips. For this, you should prefer the fluorescent yellow color.

How to use a weighted vest?

A weighted vest is used almost like a normal vest. Simply put it around the torso. The weights are distributed evenly in the front and in the back. The weighted vest comes in 2 versions: either it has a zip closure or you have to put it on by the head.

You can fix it so that it is as close to the body as possible. Thus, you will not be disturbed, whatever your movement. The models are adapted to all types of morphologies.

The vest is designed to be very robust. It can support heavy loads, usually from 5 to 30 kg. There are pockets inside so you can put removable bags loaded with pellets or sand as weights. You can also add or remove bags according to your training. It is fully adjustable. It can be used for a variety of physical activities including classic exercise, hiking, biking and weight training.

The different types of weighted vests

In all, there are several types of weighted vests on the market to choose from. It depends on the type of sport you want to practice.

The classic weighted vest

A classic vest is suitable for regular exercises such as running or walking. It is dedicated to easy workouts if you want to gain power. You can add a load from 5 kg to 30 kg. The principle is simple. When you put on your classic weighted vest, you have to put more effort to run faster. When you take it off, you will be lighter and you will gain in speed.

This type of vest is also suitable for crossfit and weight training. You just have to make sure that the weight is well distributed to have more comfort. The classic weighted vest is very easy to use. You can tighten or loosen it according to your needs.

The weighted vest for bodybuilding or crossfit

The weighted vest is generally known to accompany professionals. It is an incredible tool to add an overload in order to gain strength. It is also effective if you want to gain muscle. Indeed, it allows you to stimulate more work from your muscles so that they gain strength and vitality.

In general, a weighted vest special bodybuilding or crossfit has several pockets inside so you can put weights up to 30 kg. Your hands will be free, you can make other gestures. You no longer have to put on belts when you do pull-ups because this vest will allow you to spread the loads over your whole body. There is therefore less risk of having lumbar problems.

Weighted vest or weighted belt?

Weighted vest

The weighted vest is also called weighted jacket. Shaped like a ballistic vest, it is a vest in which weights from 5 kg to 30 kg are placed depending on your fitness level. It is made to accompany weighted sports exercises.

In general, the weight of the weighted vest is not adjustable, but there are models that can be reduced. There are several types of vests on the market, suitable for men and also for women who want to flatten their belly.

Weighted belt

A weighted belt is a belt with a chain to which we put weight. Very comfortable, it is worn on the hip and it is the pelvis that will hold it. With a weighted belt, you can choose between a weight of 10 kg to 100 kg.

A weighted belt is generally used to do squats, sit-ups and dips. However, it can also be used for other physical activities. It is handy, practical and less bulky. It can easily be put in the closet.

Verdict

The difference between a weighted vest and a weighted belt lies mainly in their handling. For certain exercises, it is more practical to use a weighted vest. Indeed, the weights are fixed and there will be no ballotage. One can thus make several types of exercises with a weighted vest. The advantage of the belt is that it is more affordable. Thus, the choice between the weighted vest and the weighted belt depends on your training and your budget.

Why buy a weighted vest?

Have more strength and endurance

If you wear a weighted vest, you will work more muscles and your exercises will be more intense than usual. This will require more strength, which will allow you to work on your breathing. If you use it on a daily basis, your muscles will gradually adapt to it, grow and gain mass, strength and endurance.

Improved cardiovascular fitness

The more weight there is on the weighted vest, the more you will work your breath and especially your cardiovascular system. Oxygen will rush into your lungs to stimulate their work. At first, it won't be very comfortable, but you'll adapt to it as you go along to optimize their capabilities.

Do a more controlled workout

The weighted vest has the power to intensify workouts. It allows you to better frame your activities to get away from the routine. It is more motivating and you will have more concrete results. You can reach your goal more easily. Your whole metabolism will quickly get used to the efforts to be more and more resistant.

A practical tool for progress

With a weighted vest, you can start by using a lighter weight, 5 kg, and increase it according to your goal. In fact, you can reduce or increase the weights and change the loads depending on the type of training you do.

More protection and comfort

By using a weighted vest, you can enjoy more protection. There is less risk of putting yourself in danger. You can use it safely. In addition, the weighted vest is very easy to put on. It is also very comfortable to use because the padding is perfectly distributed inside.

The best brands of weighted vests

In our opinion, the best brands of weighted vests in 2022 are :

Domyos
Sveltus
Capital Sport
Nike
Adidas

It is a brand of the Decathlon group which was founded in 1998. It is dedicated to sports and especially to fitness. Thus, the brand specializes in the manufacture and sale of products on martial arts, sports, dance and gymnastics.

Sveltus is a very recognized French brand that was born more than 25 years ago. It produces fitness accessories with a good quality/price ratio.

Capital Sport was born in 2014. It is more precisely recognized in the world of sports equipment. Its products are always of very good quality. In addition to weight training equipment, it also offers weighted vests accessible to all budgets.

Nike is a well-known brand that was created in 1971. It is the reference in terms of sports equipment. It offers robust and reliable equipment.

It is a German brand that was created in 1949. In terms of weighted vests, it has the particularity to produce equipment with adjustable weight.

What is the price for a weighted vest

The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).

However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.

We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.

Entry-level
20 £ to 50 £
Mid-range
50 £ to 90 £
High-end
more than 90 £
Price range diagram

Tips

Precautions for use

A weighted vest is an effective piece of equipment for boosting performance during physical training. However, it is necessary to take some precautions during its use at the risk of injuring yourself. Thus, it is recommended to start with less heavy weights and to increase the load as it evolves. This way, there is no risk of making false movements. In addition, one should warm up before putting on the vest to avoid joint problems.

The proper maintenance of the vest

The vest is subject to bacteria and microbes. Thus, it is essential to do regular maintenance through a good cleaning. It will be a good hygiene, but it will also preserve its quality. To wash the weighted jacket, you should use soap and water. In addition, it is important to check the condition of the seams from time to time.

Activities to do with a weighted vest

There is a wide range of exercises that you can do with a weighted vest. One can do push-ups, pull-ups, box jumps, muscle-ups, squats, burpees, running, walking, weight training, sandbags, kumbells as well as bars.

The proper frequency of use

It is not adequate to use the weighted vest every time you do your workouts. Professionals advise using it once a week. You can also put it on with an interval of 4 sessions on average.

Rules for use to consider with a weighted vest

To achieve the goals faster and safely, you should consider some important rules. First, there is the 10% rule which implies that you should put a load at one-tenth of your body weight on the vest. Secondly, you should focus on speed instead of endurance when using the weighted vest. Third, increase the time between reps. Fourth, never jump when using a weighted vest.

FAQ

How to make a weighted vest? How to train with a weighted vest? How long can you wear a weighted vest?

Of course, the principle is based on how the weighted vest is used. If you want to make your own vest, you need to take a fishing jacket with several pockets. After that, you need to put bags with sand or concrete to act as a load. However, you have to check the weight of each load carefully to have an optimal weight distribution.

The weight of the load to put in the vest depends on the type of activity you intend to do, among other things. Generally, the optimal load is 10% of the body weight. Experienced people can even go up to 20% of their body. You need to increase the load little by little.

To properly use a weighted vest, you need to consider your goals and the interval of workouts with the loads. Thus, push-ups, squats, dynamic gainers, lunge as well as pull-ups are the most favored activities. However, you can also take it for a run. Only, you have to consider your weight so as not to harm your health.

The duration of use mainly depends on the type of weighted vest you bought. For your training duration, you should ask a professional. Indeed, it depends on the condition of your body and the goal you want to achieve. The time of use of the vest in question is about 15 min, but this duration can be extended according to your experience.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
  1. The 15 Best Weighted Vests of 2021 for Workouts and CrossFit, Menshealth.com
  2. Choosing a Weighted Vest for Fitness Clients, Nfpt.com
  3. How to determine the right weight for a weighted vest? [Step by Step Guide], Fittylife.com
  4. Weighted Vests - Quality Training Vests for Fitness Training, Roguefitness.com
  5. Average Running Speed and Tips for Improving Your Pace, Healthline.com
  6. Weighted Vest: How to Choose the Right One for Strength Training or Cardio?, Docteur-fitness.com
  7. What is a weighted vest for?, Level-addict.com
  8. Advantages and disadvantages of weighted work in your training, Planetgrimpe.com
  9. The different types of weighted vests available online, Ener-gym.fr
  10. OBESITY : Weighting your vest to shed fat, Santelog.com
  11. Weighted vests : the weighted vest store for bodybuilding, giletleste.com
  12. Weighted vests and weighted bags | DECATHLON, decathlon.fr
  13. Weighted vests for bodybuilding and cross training ...., fitnessboutique.fr
  14. Weighted Vests | Decathlon, decathlon.fr
  15. Amazon.co.uk : weighted vests, amazon.co.uk
  16. The 4 best weighted vests : comparison and guide of ..., sport-equipements.fr
  17. The 3 (real) Best Weighted Vests for Crossfit in 2021, exerse.fr
  18. Weighted Vests 15kg to 50kg - SportaFrance, sportafrance.com
  19. Weighted Vests - Buy equipment for sportsmen | fnac, fnac.com
  20. Weighted Vests for Fitness Running ...., gorillasports.fr
  21. Weighted vest - Physical preparation equipment for soccer - Click For Foot, clickforfoot.com
  22. The sleeveless weighted vest - HOPTOYS, hoptoys.fr
  23. Weighted vest Khaki - RxGame - Bro Apparel - French Brand, bro-shop.fr
  24. Weighted vest for bodybuilding or crossfit : Which model ..., muscle-up.fr
  25. Weighted vest ⇒ How to choose and best models 2021, dr-muscu.fr
  26. Weighted vest - Bodybuilding weights - CdiscountSport, cdiscount.com
  27. Weighted vests | Decathlon, decathlon.be
  28. Weighted vests | Walmart Canada, walmart.ca
  29. Buy your bodybuilding vest online | Capital Sports, capitalsports.fr
  30. Weighted vest : how to choose to build muscle or ..., docteur-fitness.com
  31. Amazon.co.uk : weighted vest 20kg, amazon.co.uk
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Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

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Our selection
Weighted vest for bodybuilding and cross training 9
Weighted vest for bodybuilding and cross training
Weighted vest for bodybuilding 10
Weighted vest for bodybuilding
Sveltus PRO Weighted Vest 11
Sveltus PRO Weighted Vest
Capital Sports Monstervest Weighted Jacket 12
Capital Sports Monstervest Weighted Jacket

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