Building strength offers a runner a lot of advantages. Increasing speed, endurance, and reducing injuries are just a few of the reasons to start building your leg strength. But one of the questions a lot of people have is, what is the bests way to get stronger legs. With one of the answers a lot of people turn to, incorporating a weighted vest into their training. So what is the best weight vest for running? There are a lot of options on the market, offering a lot of different weights. Below we will go over picking the right weight and some of the best weight vests for runners available on Amazon.
What Weight of Weight Vest Should I run In?
There are a lot of opinions on this topic. But when it comes to running with a weight vest on, I tend to play it safe. And I am a firm believer in the rule of not running in a weighted vest that’s more than 10% of your body weight. This rule is for running. And if I want to go heavier I just turn it into a ruck/hike or a walk. I also like to use heavier weights for hill hike repeats.
Best Weight Vest for Runners – On Amazon
Aduro Sport Weighted Vest Workout Equipment
Link: Click Here
Price: $29.99+
Weight: 4lbs/6lbs/12lbs/20lbs/25lbs/30lbs
Reviews: 6,500+
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Amazon Link: Click Here
Overview
Why you want it: For a weight vest the Aduro Sport is incredibly comfortable to run in. The design is simple and breathable. Making it the perfect weight vest for running in the hot weather. And it’s incredibly stable when moving on the trails. You tend to forget its there after a few miles. I have the 12 pound version and use it regularly to run and for really long hikes. I have four different weight vests and this is the one I use the most.
Why you may think twice: This weight vest is almost perfect. But there are some reviews mentioning their vests tearing. And if you are looking for something adjustable or that can hold heavier weight then the Aduro Sport may not be for you. The Aduro is one size so if your looking to add weight, you are out of luck. It should also be noted that I read a lot of negative reviews about the zippered version. Which I have not tried. So I would say, do not get the zipper version.
Aduro Sport Weight Vest Review
“This vest is fantastic. I’m training for the Police Academy doing crossfit like workouts in my yard and runs for cardio. I needed to simulate the weight an officer carries in gear to get use to physical activity and agility while top heavy and this has been great. I wear it for my whole workout which is usually 40 min to any hour with no discomfort. Two days ago ran 5 miles without any issues. Very comfortable and durable for me. The reflectors work well and I put my phone in the mesh net after starting my playlist and just go. I also wear it around the house a couple of hours a day to get use to carrying the weight around all day. For me, nothing but good things to say.”
Aduro Sport Adjustable Weighted Vest Workout Equipment
Link: Click Here
Price: $49.99+
Weight: 4-10lbs/11-20lbs/20-32lbs/26-46lbs
Reviews: 1,000+
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Amazon Link: Click Here
Overview
Why you want it: Aduro took everything we loved about the original Sport and used it as the base to build their adjustable version. Making it a great weight vest for running. Offering four different weight ranges, each vest comes at a fixed weight with a pocket on the front and back and five, one pound bags that can be added . This offers something to fit almost everyone’s needs. And is a great tool for any athlete looking to get stronger.
Why you may think twice: The added weight is noticeable when you are running. As it is not as stable as the internal build weight. It’s not bad, just something worth noting. The added material also makes it a little warmer to run in compared to the original sport. The added weight range of 5lbs is also limited compared to some of the more “adjustable” weight vest styles. If you’re looking to go heavier check out the next vest on our list.
Aduro Sport Adjustable Weight Vest Review
“I tried a couple of weighted vests before settling on this one and I’m really happy with my purchase. The model I got weighs 11 to 20 pounds. You can use the vest at 11 pounds (there’s no way to make it weigh less) or add the six included 1-1/2 pound weight bags reach a total of 20 pounds; adding one weight bag would make the vest weigh 12-1/2 lbs, adding two would make it weigh 14 lbs, etc. I haven’t tried it yet with more that 11 pounds in it but it would be really easy as the vest has 6 velcro pockets the weight bags fit snugly into.
The cross-chest (and cross-back) design means it fits well and doesn’t flop around, even during jumping jacks, burpees, etc. I wear it over a t-shirt and under gi jacket and haven’t had any issues with chafing. The vest is quite easy to put on and take off.
The back of the vest is kind of bulky making full sit ups difficult because you can’t lay all the way down flat when wearing the vest. It works fine for crunches and v-ups, etc.”
miR Air Flow Weighted Vest
Link: Click Here
Price: $49.99+
Weight: 20lbs – 60lbs
Reviews: 1,000+
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Amazon Link: Click Here
Overview
Why you want it: If you’re looking for a quality weight vest that can hold a lot of weight and is built to last, then the MIR is the vest for you. This is my go to weight vest for doing the Murph Challenge workout and for anything involving a lot of movement. You can read my full review on it by click here. I’ve had the vest for 4 years and it’s still going strong. The vest is designed shorter then a lot of other models. This allows your core a lot of freedom. Making running and other movements much more comfortable than other heavier model vests.
Why you may think twice: I wouldn’t say this is the ideal weight vest for running. But it’s better than most of the other options. The way this weight vest sits high on your body, it places a lot of emphasis on your core. This can be a problem for some people. The other reason you might want to look at another option is if you want something lighter. With the two above being perfect options.
MIR Weight Vest Review
“I’ve gone through several weight vests, usually they’re very awkward to get on and off, especially lacking logical belt design, so that either the front or the back of the vest is hanging too far and you spend a lot of time fussing to position it correctly with the belt dangling off in space. None of these problems with this weight vest. Goes on well, balances quickly and ties up nicely. Really satisfied with it and recommend for a choice of weight vest. It’s a winner.”
