If you’re here, you already know that CrossFit is an incredibly popular and effective workout program. Millions of people around the world follow the CrossFit lifestyle and complete their WODs from home, and sometimes competitively at an affiliated gym.
A weighted vest increases the benefits you’re getting from your workout. The extra resistance translates to increased endurance, better cardiovascular health, greater core and overall physical strength, and more.
Adding a weighted vest to your CrossFit routine is going to make the entire workout significantly more challenging – a great way to train if you’re competing. It won’t be easy, but if you’re into CrossFit, it will be fun. If you’re up to the challenge, the best weight vest for CrossFit is going to be one that fits securely, is fully adjustable (meaning you can add and remove weight) and washable (preferably machine-washable). You won’t need an excessive amount of weight, but enough to add a decent challenge.
Top Three Picks
There’s a variety of weight vests to choose from. Some are geared towards light cardio, and some can hold over 100lbs. We’ve narrowed your choices to three of the best ones available for CrossFit.
Harbinger Adjustable Weight Vest
Harbinger is a well-known and trusted brand and designs world-class strength and conditioning products. They’re a leader in the health and fitness community. From gloves and apparel to ab wheels, lifting straps, and yoga mats, walk into any gym and you’ll easily find a number of their products.
The Harbinger vest is not only a quality piece of equipment, but it looks great too. The weights can be difficult to get into the vest, but you want them held securely while you’re working out.
This vest is labeled as the men’s version but can also be used by women. They do make a women’s version but it doesn’t hold as much weight.
Features
- Two models available – 20 and 40 lbs., fully adjustable in 1 lb increments. Plenty of weight for those who are more experienced, but also great for beginners who need so start light.
- Features a tailored design that has fully adjustable shoulder straps and a neoprene belt that conforms to your body, providing a secure and comfortable fit while also allowing plenty of mobility.
- Has a tough, abrasion-resistant outer shell with dual padded chest and shoulders, ensuring it doesn’t only look good and function well, but it’s also incredibly durable.
- Extremely comfortable, the adjustable straps keep it in place well.
- Weight is evenly distributed, it doesn’t feel concentrated on your shoulders.
- Allows free range of motion as well as mobility in the diaphragm area.
- Great overall stability and durability.
Cons
- The weights can be difficult to insert and remove from the vest
MIR Pro Weighted Vest
The MIR Pro weight vest comes in two different designs – one with a zipper front so you can get into or out of it quickly. It’s a smartly designed, good looking vest that includes a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty.
MIR also offers a women’s option for the vest.
Features
- Was designed for mobility, providing you with a maximum range of motion regardless of the exercise.
- Weights come in 3lb iron bar increments, adjustable up to 60lbs.
- Features a soft, sweat-wicking material that keeps you cool during workouts.
- Machine washable.
- Extremely durable. This thing is built to last.
- Two vest options, one with zipper front.
- “Air Flow Design” keeps you cool.
Cons
- The strap system can be difficult to set up for proper fit.
RUNFast Pro Weighted Vest
The RUNFast vest is our top rated overall vest at STE.
RUNFast is a well-known and trusted brand. The Pro Weighted Vest is another of their well-built products and comes loaded with plenty of extra options.
Features
- Available in a variety of weight classes from 12 – 60 lbs.
- Includes shoulder padding for added comfort
- Adjustable straps that make it an easy fit for most sizes
- Constructed of sturdy, durable ballistic nylon
- Features a front pocket for phone and headphone outlet
- Features pocket/strap for water bottle
- Flexible and easy to move in
- Durable
- Fits snugly to your body and stays in place during workouts
- Great for men or women
Cons
- Use of sandbags as weight carries the risk of retaining odor
Summary
Any of these vests would be a great addition to your CrossFit routine. Which one you choose will ultimately depend on your personal preferences. Choose the one that will work best for you and enjoy the extra challenge during your next WOD.
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