In this article, I’m sharing the top weighted vests for women that are perfect for beginners. These are lightweight, comfortable, and designed with our bodies in mind.
Why Weighted Vests Are Great for Women Beginners
Weighted vests add extra resistance to your workouts, helping you burn more calories and build strength without needing bulky gym equipment. For us women—especially if you’re just getting started—choosing the right vest is so important. It needs to be adjustable, breathable, and not too heavy.
I started with just 8 pounds, and trust me, it was enough to feel the difference without overwhelming me.
What to Look for in a Weighted Vest
When I was shopping for my first vest, I learned quickly that not all vests are created equal. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
- Adjustable Weight: As a beginner, you’ll want to start light and increase gradually.
- Comfortable Fit: Women’s bodies are shaped differently. A good vest should hug your curves without chafing or bouncing.
- Breathability: Look for mesh or moisture-wicking materials, especially if you’re doing cardio.
- Range of Motion: You want to move freely, whether you’re doing squats or going for a brisk walk.
My Top Picks: Weighted Vests for Women Beginners
I’ve tested a few and read a ton of reviews. These are the top beginner-friendly options that consistently get high marks from women like you and me.
1. Henkelion Weighted Vest for Women
Best for Walking and Light Cardio
This is the vest I started with. It comes in different weights (4 to 12 lbs), and I love that it’s designed to fit snugly on smaller frames. The neoprene material is soft against the skin, and the reflective stripes make it safe for early morning walks.
✅ Pros:
- Comfortable and lightweight
- Great for petite women
- Affordable
- Balanced weight distribution
⚠️ Cons:
- Not adjustable (fixed weight)
My experience: I used the 8 lb version for power walking and light HIIT. It felt like wearing a backpack without the bulk.
2. RUNFast/Max Adjustable Weighted Vest
Best Adjustable Vest for Beginners
This vest gives you flexibility to start light and add weight as you build strength. It comes with removable weights so you can adjust between 12 and 20 pounds (depending on the model you buy). It’s a bit bulkier but still wearable for shorter workouts.
✅ Pros:
- Adjustable weights
- Durable material
- Fits most body types
⚠️ Cons:
- Can feel bulky on petite frames
- Not designed specifically for women
My tip: Start with just half the included weight, then gradually increase as your muscles adapt.
3. Empower Weighted Fitness Vest for Women
Best Designed Specifically for Women
This one feels like it was actually made for us! It’s contoured to the female body and comes with a cross-strap design that’s super secure. At 8 pounds, it’s perfect for beginners, especially during home workouts or Pilates.
✅ Pros:
- Contoured fit for women
- Doesn’t bounce
- Stylish and comfortable
⚠️ Cons:
- Fixed weight
- Slightly pricier than others
My experience: I wore this for a 20-minute bodyweight circuit, and it felt natural—like an extension of my body.
4. Tone Fitness Weighted Vest
Best Budget Option
If you’re on a tight budget, this is a great entry-level option. It’s simple, adjustable with Velcro straps, and weighs about 12 pounds. While it doesn’t have the contoured fit of the Empower vest, it’s still great for walking or squats.
✅ Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Reflective accents
- Secure Velcro fit
⚠️ Cons:
- Less tailored fit for women
- Not adjustable in weight
Pro tip: Wear it over a long-sleeved shirt or tank with thick straps to prevent shoulder pressure.
5. Hyperwear Hyper Vest Fit
Best High-End Option for Women
This is for the serious beginner who wants premium quality. It’s super sleek, almost like a compression shirt, and distributes weight very evenly. It’s designed to fit the female form and won’t shift even during high-impact moves.
✅ Pros:
- Super sleek and snug
- Expandable weight options
- High-quality materials
⚠️ Cons:
- Pricey
- Limited availability
Worth it? If you’re serious about long-term fitness and want a vest that’ll grow with you, yes.
My Final Thoughts
If you’re just starting out, don’t overthink it—just start. A weighted vest can add a whole new challenge to your everyday movements and make you feel like a total badass.
👉 My personal pick? The Henkelion Weighted Vest is amazing for beginners who want something simple and effective. But if you want something more tailored to your body, the Empower vest is totally worth it.
Whatever you choose, listen to your body, start slow, and enjoy the journey. You’ve got this, girl. 💪
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Cathy is a fitness enthusiast and product reviewer with a passion for helping women find the best gear to support their health and wellness goals. With a special focus on weighted vests for women, she shares honest, in-depth reviews to make your fitness journey more effective—and stylish. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned athlete, Cathy’s insights help you choose equipment that fits your lifestyle and body.