CrossFit is one of the most demanding forms of physical training out there. With that said, there arrives a point at which drilling the calisthenics movements becomes relatively easier, which can eventually result in a plateau.
When you reach the point of diminishing returns, or simply like the idea of introducing a higher level of difficulty to moves such as bodyweight squats and pushups, investing in a reliable weighted vest is the way to go. This way, you can keep the natural flow of the movement, without needing to rely on dumbbells or barbells.
In this guide, we will break down some of the best-weighted vests for CrossFit so that you can make an informed decision, based on the factors you value most.
Lets get started!
The Best Weighted Vests For Crossfit and Comparison Chart
Comparison Chart
RUNmax Pro Weighted Vest 12lbs/ 20lbs/ 40lbs/ 50lbs/ 60lbs with Shoulder Pads Option (with Shoulder Pads, 40lbs)
RitFit Weighted Vest 8 10 12 15 20 Lbs for Men & Women with Adjustable Straps and Reflective Strips, Body Weight Vest for Strength Training and Muscle Building, Neoprene Fabric (Black – 10LB)
RUNmax Pro
Weighted Vest
As the name suggests, the manufacturer designed this weighted vest for running, but unlike the other cardio-focused vests on this list, the RUNmax offering is heavy-duty.
This vest is for the seasoned runner looking to increase the challenge of their runs. While you can get 12lb and 20lb variations, the highest weight you can buy this vest in is a hefty 60lbs.
One of the best features of this vest, other than the challenge level, is the ability to remove the weights. This adaptability, combined with the extra weights provided by the manufacturer, makes for great value for money.
Finally, this vest rids the need to wear a backpack on your run, as it comes with a handy built-in water bottle holder, and phone pocket.
Pros
- Removable weights
- Includes a water bottle holder and phone pocket
- Heavier weight options
Cons
- Weight pockets aren’t the most sturdy
Key Takeaway
If you’re as into running as you are strength training, then you will appreciate the heavy load of this weight vest on your torso the next time you are out on the move. This vest isn’t ideal for intense weight training, though, as the weight pockets are liable to tear away with excessive movement.
miR Air Flow
Weighted Vest 20lbs-60lbs
Another solid contender is the miR Air Flow Weighted vest. It offers a ton of value for those seeking a more intense workout and who don’t want limitations as to how much weight they can carry.
The standout feature of this weighted vest is its impressive airflow and ventilation, due to the front zipper design. With this vest, you won’t need to sacrifice comfort for extra weight, as you’ll be just as comfortable with or without it.
This vest also features removable weights, allowing for on-the-go adjustments, and an adaptable experience during your workout.
Due to the iron weights used in the miR vest, you won’t have to deal with the issue of leaking which can occur with sandbags.
Pros
- Excellent airflow and breathability
- Removable weights
- Comfortable to wear
- Can hold up to 60lbs of weight
Cons
- Can be difficult to put on
Key Takeaway
The miR Air Flow weighted vest is excellent for anyone looking to ramp up the intensity of their workouts. Since there is nothing worse than feeling more uncomfortable than you need to when cranking out those last few reps, the effective ventilation of this vest is a big plus.
However, if you’re looking for a light vest for cardio and long runs to build endurance, then you might find this vest on the heavier side. The complex strap system means that if you’re looking for a vest that you can easily throw on before hitting the gym, you might be disappointed.
RitFit
Adjustable Weighted Vest
The RitFit adjustable weighted vest is perfect for runners looking to go the extra mile with their training, with regards to the difficulty level.
Like having a heavy backpack, but with even weight distribution, this weighted vest is built to last and will help you step up your CrossFit training regime.
The high-quality design and lightweight (including options of 8lbs, 10lbs, 12lbs, 15lbs, and 20lbs) of this vest make it ideal for cardio sessions and for those who are new to the world of weighted vests.
Also worthy of note are the reflective strips, which will make you feel safer running at nighttime and the adjustable straps, which will help you achieve the perfect fit.
Pros
- Lightweight, beginner-friendly
- Adjustable straps front and side straps
- Made from high-quality material
- Reflective strips for nighttime training
Cons
- Might not fit perfectly with some body types
Key Takeaway
This vest is best for anyone interested in running and cardio, its adjustable straps, lightweight design, and reflective strips all combine to make it an excellent product for comfortable outdoor use.
The vest isn’t as suited to more intense training due to its light nature, so this one isn’t for those looking to increase their strength in the gym. If you don’t have a smaller build, then you might find this vest is liable to slip or move around a bit when performing CrossFit exercises.
ZFOsports
Weighted Vest 30lbs – 80lbs
With options between 30lbs and 80lbs, the ZFOsports weighted vest is for the masochists amongst you looking for a severe increase in weight for your workouts.
There’s arguably something quite exciting about the prospect of a significant difficulty spike, and the ZFOsports vest provides just that.
On top of the staggering weight, this vest comes with some decent extra features like a water bottle holder and phone pocket, for those times when you’re training outside. The vest also comes with extra weight bags, so you can adjust it how you please, and create the best vest for your needs.
Pros
- Incredibly heavy and challenging
- Great extras
- Comes with extra weights
Cons
- Assembly can be difficult
Key Takeaway
A killer weighted vest which will crank the difficulty level up on your next strength workout. Suitable for walkers and those who are looking for a big step up in difficulty for their CrossFit workout. Assembly of the vest can be a bit fiddly though, and runners might find it too heavy.
Aduro Sport
Weighted Fitness Vest
A lightweight option, starting as low as 4 pounds, and going up to 25 pounds, Aduro designed this sport weighted vest to add some difficulty to prolonged cardio sessions and body-weight training.
Wearable by men, women, or even children, this vest operates with a one size fits all philosophy, with an adjustable front belt to secure it tightly to your torso, and as a result, won’t move around as you exercise.
The fit shouldn’t compromise comfort, though, as the soft neoprene material will feel good on the skin, allowing for a pleasant experience.
Lastly, the Aduro sports vest uses iron weights and has an extra mesh pocket on the back so that you can double up on the load should you need more of a challenge.
Pros
- Stays in place when you’re moving around
- Straightforward to strap on
- Very comfortable to wear
- Light enough for long periods of cardio sessions
Cons
- Some users note a chemical odor to the vest
Key Takeaway
All in all, this entry from Aduro is a stellar option if you love nothing more than a challenging run around the park or an extended session on the treadmill. This is primarily due to the stability of the vest, which means it isn’t prone to move around a lot as you are in motion. Some claim that a bad smell emanates from the vest, so this is a potential red flag if odor is something you can’t stand.
Our Top Pick, And Why!
Our choice for the best-weighted vest for Crossfit is non-other than the RUNmax Pro.
This vest made it first place because it checks off all the boxes when it comes to reliability, breath-ability, comfort, and versatility. The vest is a great choice for CrossFit trainers off all types ranging from beginner, to advanced individuals, as it lets you increase the amount of weight according to your goals.
The vest can also be worn by both men and women with different torso sizes while staying snug to your waist for all the demands of cross-fit training.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Benefits Of Wearing A Weighted Vest?
Wearing a weighted vest for CrossFit has many advantages. Below, we listed a few key benefits of using a weighted vest for Crossfit.
Helps Increase Strength, Endurance, And Overall Performance!
Wearing a weighted vest when performing CrossFit can increase the amount of resistance you face during your workouts, which helps increase both strength and endurance. Your body will be pushed to new levels and your muscles will be challenged in a greater way, therefore increasing your overall performance.
Help You Overcome Plateaus
If you have been training for a while and have some experience points under your belt, then you may be familiar with plateaus, where your body begins to adjust to your level of exercise. This can lead to a halt in both muscle growth and/or strength from your workouts.
Wearing a weighted vest can help shock your body and challenge it in a new and exciting way. This will help you level up in terms of your fitness and can help you overcome any plateaus.
Helps Increase Fat-Loss
Wearing a weighted vest during CrossFit training can significantly increase your body’s ability to lose fat. This is because more resistance is added to your routine, therefore requiring you to use more energy during your workouts.
Helps Improve Musculoskeletal system
Research suggests that increasing your overall physical activity resistance can help strengthen the connective tissues to your bones, as well as the bones themselves. Because weighted vests challenge your body in a greater way, your musculoskeletal system helps lower the chances of injury.
Helps Increase Balance
When weight is added to your upper body such as your torso, your core muscles become more engaged. When this happens, they become stronger, thus helping improve overall balance as well as abdominal strength.
May Help Correct Posture
When you apply more weight to your upper body, both your shoulders and back are forced to become aligned in a proper position, especially when performing CrossFit. This can help your back to be corrected over time as it adapts to its optimal position, therefore helping improve your overall posture.
How To Choose The Best Weighted Vest For Crossfit
To help you identify what to look for before choosing your vest, we listed 4 things you should consider before finally picking out your weighted vest for CrossFit.
Comfort
Like anything you would wear, comfort is an important factor. Wearing an uncomfortable vest during your training sessions will not only irritate you but can become a distraction when trying to perform at your best level.
You can look for extra padding and cushioning to help increase comfort. Also, make sure that the seams of the vest are not digging into your skin during your workouts. This can prevent any irritation that can be caused by rubbing when making vigorous movements during your workouts.
Material
We recommend looking for breathable materials that are both soft to the touch and lightweight. Materials you can consider can be polyester or neoprene, as these are known for their softness, breath-ability, and can help wick moisture away from the body.
Mobility
Because you are going to be moving a lot during your cross-fit sessions, you will want to make sure that you are able to move easily without your vest being in the way of your training. You can do this by choosing a vest that is smaller in size.
Another way you can increase mobility is to avoid choosing weighted vests with large weights and pockets that cause them to be bulky. This will allow you to turn and swing your arm more freely without rubbing against the pockets fo the best.
How Heavy Should A Weighted Vest Be?
There are currently no studies that indicate how much weight you should be wearing. However, professional athletes and fitness practitioners recommend that you start with a low amount of weight and then gradually increase the weight as you continue training.
A good guideline would be to pick a weight that will allow you to accomplish a specific fitness goal or target while still challenging you in the process. That being said, you should be careful not to add too much weight, as this can increase your chances of getting injured.
So, the question as to how heavy your weighted vest should be is conditional based on your weight, performance, and capability. It is up to you to determine how much weight is best for you and your goals by testing and consistently adjusting as your performance increases.
Is It Safe To Run With A Weighted Vest?
Yes, running with a weighted vest is completely safe if it is secure enough, and does not get in the way of your vision when running.
To further increase safety, we recommend choosing a weighted vest with reflective strips if your going to be running in low light such as at night or early in the morning. This can help prevent accidents by helping drivers and others see you more clearly. If your vest does not have reflective strips, you can purchase them as an add on accessory and place them on your vest where they can easily be seen.