Weighted vests can help improve strength and endurance and burn more calories.
However, there are several factors to consider when choosing the best weighted vest for your needs, including:
- Weight
- Comfort
- Fit
In this blog post, I’ll review the best weighted vests for hiking, helping you pick the right one for your needs.
Let’s jump in.
Best Weighted Vest for Hiking (Reviewed)
CAP Barbell 20-150 Lb Adjustable Weighted Vest
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned athlete, the CAP Barbell 20-150 Lb Adjustable Weighted Vest is a great choice for adding resistance to your workout.
The CAP Barbell Weighted Vest is adjustable, so you can add or remove weight to find the perfect resistance for your needs.
Plus, the vest is made with reinforced Nylon and Polyester, which makes it durable and in turn long-lasting.
It is also comfortable to wear and it will not rub or chafe your skin.
The vest is adjustable so you can get the perfect fit.
It is made of durable materials and is adjustable to ensure a comfortable, snug fit. The vest also features pockets for holding iron ore fines, making it an obvious choice for hiking.
However, it can be a little hard to use the straps on the back, but that’s not a deal-breaker.
Pros
- Durable (Polyester and nylon)
- Adjustable weight (Pockets)
- Comfortable fit
Cons
- The back straps might not be very easy to use
CROSS101 Weighted Vest 20lbs – 80lbs With Shoulder Pads
If you’re looking for a unisex weighted vest, the CROSS101 Weighted Vest is one of the best options on the market, hands down.
This vest comes with 20lbs – 80lbs weights included, so you can choose the perfect amount of weight for your needs. And, if you want some extra support and cushioning, there’s an option to add shoulder pads.
The CROSS101 Weighted Vest is perfect for men and women who want to take their hike to the next level.
Plus, the shipping prices are the same, no matter what weight option you order.
This can save you shipping costs when you’re going with a heavier option.
If you’re looking for a workout vest that will help you push your limits, this is the one for you.
However, the weights are on the back, so you’ll feel them if you decided to lay back for a bit, or maybe do some crunches.
Pros
- Comfortable and fit snugly
- Durable
- Great for men and women
Cons
- Weights on the back, which can be good or bad
Hyperwear Hyper Vest PRO Weighted Vest
Hyperwear’s Hyper Vest PRO is a weighted vest that is designed to be comfortable and functional for both men and women.
The vest is made from a performance stretch wicking fabric that helps to keep the wearer cool and dry, and the weight is evenly distributed across the body.
The vest also has adjustable straps so that it can be customized for different body sizes.
The Hyper Vest PRO is a great option for hikers who are looking for a way to add some extra weight to their workout without compromising comfort or performance.
Plus, its stretch fabric allows for a full range of motion, and the adjustable straps make it easy to find the perfect fit.
The vest’s weight distribution also helps to reduce fatigue and prevent injuries.
However, some of the slots provided for weights might be tough to access.
Pros
- Comfortable and breathable
- Sturdy
- Can be hidden under a normal shirt
- You can distribute the weights around
Cons
- Some weight slots can be hard to access
Perfect Fitness Weight Vest
This vest is comfortable to wear, thanks to its flat, flexible weights, and it doesn’t shift around or chafe as some other vests can.
It’s also adjustable so you can customize the fit, and the weights are evenly distributed so you’ll feel balanced while wearing it.
The shell of the Perfect Fitness weighted vest is made from a breathable material, ensuring that users stay cool and comfortable even during intense workouts. The vest also features padded shoulders for added comfort, making it ideal for use during long-term wear.
Probably the only downside is that it has powdered iron in the weight pockets.
So, you need to be careful not to burst open one.
Whether you’re looking to up your cardio game or add some extra resistance to your strength-training routine, the Perfect Fitness Weight Vest is a great option.
Pros
- Weight adjustment
- Easy to use
- Comfortable
- Great for the price
Cons
- Powdered iron weights
RUNMax 12lbs-140lbs Adjustable Weighted Vest
The RUNMax 12lbs-140lbs Adjustable Weighted Vest is a great option for hikers who are looking for a vest that can be adjusted to their desired weight.
The weights come included with the vest, and they can be added or removed as needed.
The weight distribution is equal, which means you won’t be straining your back or shoulders while hiking.
You can even add extra shoulder pads if you need more comfort.
There’s a phone pocket and a water bottle holder as well, which means…
You can check your phone and sip water whenever you feel like it.
However, the shoulder area might need extra cushioning when you’re on higher weights.
Pros
- Great price
- Comfortable
- Adjustable weights
- Weights included
- Phone and water bottle pocket
Cons
- Might need extra cushioning on the shoulder area
ProsourceFit Exercise Weighted Training Vest
The ProsourceFit Exercise Weighted Training Vest is a great option because it is adjustable to fit both men and women, and it is designed specifically for hiking. It has plenty of pockets for storing small items, and the weight is distributed evenly so that it doesn’t put too much strain on any one area of the body.
The vest is made from soft breathable neoprene that’s not only durable but offers great comfort as well.
Moreover, the versatile functionality of the vest makes it perfect for a multitude of workouts including hiking, running, and even gym workouts.
However, if you’re a petite individual, the straps might not provide a perfect fit.
Pros
- Comfortable and durable
- Evenly distributed weights
- Versatile
Cons
- Might not be very adjustable for petite bodies
Best Weighted Vest for Hiking (Buyer’s Guide)
What’s a Weighted Vest Anyway?
A weighted vest is a type of clothing that is worn on the body and typically has weights sewn into it. The vest itself is usually made from a breathable, comfortable material like cotton or polyester.
The weights in the vest can be made from different materials, such as sand and metal. Weighted vests are often used for physical therapy or to increase the intensity of a workout.
They can also be helpful for people who have trouble with balance or coordination. For hikers, a weighted vest can add an extra challenge to their trek and help them build up endurance and strength.
Related: Does Hiking Build Leg Muscle?
Applications of a Weighted Vest (Other than Hiking)
There are many applications for a weighted vest, other than hiking. For example, a weighted vest can be used to:
1. Improve posture and alignment: Wearing a weighted vest while performing daily activities can help to improve your posture and alignment.
2. Decrease back pain: Wearing a weighted vest can help to decrease back pain by providing support and stability to the spine.
3. Enhance balance and coordination: The added weight of a weighted vest helps to enhance your balance and coordination. This is especially beneficial for older adults or those with neurological conditions.
4. Increase bone density: The added weight of a weighted vest helps to stimulate bone growth, which can lead to increased bone density over time.
This is especially important for postmenopausal women or those at risk for osteoporosis.
Benefits of Using a Weighted Vest for Hiking
A weighted vest is a type of clothing that is worn to add weight to the body.
This extra weight can have benefits for hikers, as it can help to tone muscles and improve endurance.
Wearing a vest also forces the body to use more energy, which can help to burn calories and promote weight loss. When used properly, a weighted vest can be an excellent tool for hikers who are looking to improve their physical fitness.
So, what qualities should you look for while selecting a weighted vest?
Let’s find out.
Comfort
First and foremost, you want to find a vest that is comfortable. There are a variety of materials and designs on the market, so take your time to find one that suits your needs.
Weight
Secondly, you’ll want to consider the weight of the vest. Heavier vests will add more resistance to your hike, but may also be more difficult to carry.
Storage Space
Finally, think about how you will be using the vest. If you plan on using it for long hikes, look for one with plenty of storage space for water and snacks.
Durability
Look for a vest that is made from durable materials. The last thing you want is for your vest to fall apart after a few hikes.
Even Weight Distribution
Make sure the weight distribution is even throughout the vest. An uneven distribution can throw off your balance and make hiking more difficult.
A Snug Fit
Needless to say, the right weighted vest for hiking is the one that provides a snug fit for your body.
This means you should be able to adjust a weighted vest with a strap.
With these things in mind, you’re sure to find the best weighted vest for hiking.
Conclusion: Best Weighted Vest for Hiking
In conclusion, the best weighted vest for hiking depends on your needs and preferences. If you want a vest that is lightweight and comfortable, the CAP Barbell is a great option.
If you need a vest that will hold more weight, the RUNMax would be a good choice. Whatever vest you choose, make sure it fits well and is comfortable to wear.
