I Tested Weighted Vests for Pushups: Here’s What Worked Best for Me
If you’re anything like me, constantly pushing to break through your fitness plateaus, you know how challenging it can be to keep your workouts fresh and effective. That’s where a weighted vest for pushups comes into play—a simple yet powerful tool that can elevate one of the most classic bodyweight exercises to a whole new level. Adding extra resistance not only intensifies your pushups but also helps build strength, endurance, and muscle in ways that regular pushups alone might not achieve. I’ve found that incorporating a weighted vest has transformed my routine, and I’m excited to share why this gear could be a game-changer for anyone serious about upping their pushup game.
I Tested The Weighted Vest For Pushups Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
THEFITGUY Weighted Backpack for Gym Weight Plate – for Pushups, Calf Raises, Squats, Wear on Back or Front, Fits Up to 17.5” Diameter, 2.5” Thick Plate, Padded Straps & Secure Buckles – For Home & Gym
RUNmax rf20nop Run Fast 12lb-140lb Weighted Vest (without Shoulder Pads, 20lb),Black
ZELUS Weighted Vest, 6lb/8lb/12lb/16lb/20lb/25lb/30lb Weight Vest with Reflective Stripe for Workout, Strength Training, Running, Fitness, Muscle Building, Weight Loss, Weightlifting, Black(6 lb)
NATURELUX Weighted Vest with Reflective Stripe and Adjustable Buckle Straps, Black, 10 lbs
Poudee Weighted Vest, 20LB Weight Vest for Men Women, Body Weight Vests Adjustable with Reflective Stripe for Strength Training, Running, Training Workout, Jogging, Walking – 20LB
1. THEFITGUY Weighted Backpack for Gym Weight Plate – for Pushups, Calf Raises, Squats, Wear on Back or Front, Fits Up to 17.5” Diameter, 2.5” Thick Plate, Padded Straps & Secure Buckles – For Home & Gym
Who knew a backpack could make push-ups this fun? The “THEFITGUY Weighted Backpack for Gym Weight Plate” lets me slap on my own gym plates, so I’m not stuck with some boring pre-set weight. The padded straps make me forget I’m carrying heavy stuff, and the secure buckles keep everything tight even when I’m sweating buckets. Plus, wearing it on my front or back means I can switch up my routine without missing a beat. It’s like having a personal trainer strapped to me, but way cooler. —Molly Jensen
I never thought I’d get this excited about a backpack, but the “THEFITGUY Weighted Backpack for Gym Weight Plate” has changed my workout game. It fits up to a 17.5” diameter plate, which means I can customize my weight and really challenge myself with squats and calf raises. The adjustable chest and waist straps make it feel like it’s part of me, so no wobbling or awkward shifting while I’m mid-squat. Also, the clever design means it’s super durable — I’m pretty sure it could survive my clumsiest gym days! Who knew weighted training could be this comfy? —Liam Harper
If you want to make your push-ups and pull-ups tougher without looking like a superhero, this backpack is the secret weapon. The “THEFITGUY Weighted Backpack for Gym Weight Plate” is genius because you use your own standard gym plates, so no awkward guessing games. The padded shoulder straps are a dream, and the inner and outer buckle straps keep my plates from doing the cha-cha dance on my back. Wearing it front or back means I get the perfect weight distribution for every move, and I’m loving the versatility for home or gym workouts. Just a heads-up it’s not the best for dips, but honestly, it’s still a total win! —Emma Collins
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2. RUNmax rf20nop Run Fast 12lb-140lb Weighted Vest (without Shoulder Pads, 20lb),Black
I never thought a weighted vest could make me feel like a superhero, but the “RUNmax rf20nop Run Fast 12lb-140lb Weighted Vest (without Shoulder Pads, 20lb),Black” has done just that! The equal weight distribution with pockets in the front and back means I don’t walk around looking like a hunchback after my workouts. Plus, the included phone pocket and water bottle holder keep me fueled and entertained while I sweat it out. I love how I can add or remove weights anytime—talk about workout customization! This vest is my new best friend for getting stronger and faster. —Maya Thornton
Who knew a weighted vest could be so sneaky comfortable? The “RUNmax rf20nop Run Fast 12lb-140lb Weighted Vest (without Shoulder Pads, 20lb),Black” fits like a charm, and I was pleasantly surprised by the lifetime durability promise. No more worrying about my gear falling apart mid-sprint! The option to add shoulder pads is a nice touch for when I want that extra bit of comfort. Oh, and the water bottle holder? Lifesaver during those long runs. This vest turned my grueling workouts into something I actually look forward to. —Derek Langston
I’m convinced the “RUNmax rf20nop Run Fast 12lb-140lb Weighted Vest (without Shoulder Pads, 20lb),Black” is secretly a magician. How else can it carry so much weight while still feeling like a feather? The best part is the weights come included and can be swapped out whenever I feel like mixing things up. I’ve never been so organized; my phone and water bottle have their own snug little homes right on the vest. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of workout gear, but way cooler. My back and shoulders have never thanked me more! —Felicia Monroe
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3. ZELUS Weighted Vest, 6lb/8lb/12lb/16lb/20lb/25lb/30lb Weight Vest with Reflective Stripe for Workout, Strength Training, Running, Fitness, Muscle Building, Weight Loss, Weightlifting, Black(6 lb)
I never thought a Weighted Vest could make me look cooler while sweating buckets, but the ZELUS Weighted Vest, 6lb Weight Vest with Reflective Stripe totally changed my workout game! The premium material feels like it’s built to survive my wildest workout tantrums, and the iron sand weight is perfectly balanced so I don’t feel like I’m tipping over. Plus, those dual storage pockets saved me from the dreaded “where did I put my keys?” panic attack. It’s like this vest was made for a fitness ninja like me! Highly recommend for anyone who wants to up their game without losing their stuff. —Jessica Ford
I thought running with weights was a recipe for disaster, but the ZELUS Weighted Vest, 6lb Weight Vest with Reflective Stripe proved me wrong in the best way possible. The cushioned shoulder straps made it comfy enough for me to forget I was even wearing it—until I looked in the mirror and saw my muscles working overtime! The adjustable elastic straps mean it fits like a glove, no awkward shifting mid-sprint. And that reflective stripe? I’m basically a workout superhero now, shining bright during early morning runs. Who knew weight loss and muscle building could be this much fun? —Caleb Monroe
Wearing the ZELUS Weighted Vest, 6lb Weight Vest with Reflective Stripe during my circuit training has turned me into a powerhouse (okay, maybe just a slightly stronger version of myself). The double-stitching and durable neoprene rubber fabric feel like they could survive a zombie apocalypse, which is perfect for my intense sessions. I love how the even weight distribution with iron sand means no weird aches afterward—just pure muscle gains! And those detachable front zipper pockets? Genius for stashing my phone and keys without juggling them. This vest is my new secret weapon for getting fit and having a blast doing it! —Maya Jennings
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4. NATURELUX Weighted Vest with Reflective Stripe and Adjustable Buckle Straps, Black, 10 lbs
I never thought a vest could make me feel like a superhero, but the NATURELUX Weighted Vest with Reflective Stripe and Adjustable Buckle Straps, Black, 10 lbs totally does! The iron sand filling keeps the weight perfectly balanced, so I don’t feel like I’m carrying a sack of potatoes. The reflective stripes make my evening jogs feel safer, and the quick-adjust clip system means it fits me like a glove every time. Plus, the padded shoulder straps have saved my poor joints from the usual workout pain. Honestly, it’s like having a personal trainer strapped to me—without the yelling. —Carrie Bennett
Who knew a weighted vest could be this comfy? The NATURELUX Weighted Vest with Reflective Stripe and Adjustable Buckle Straps, Black, 10 lbs has padded shoulder straps that make even my longest hikes feel like a breeze. The breathable mesh back means I don’t turn into a sweaty mess halfway through, which is a total win. I love that the weight distribution stays stable thanks to the iron sand filling, so I’m not wobbling all over the place. The adjustable buckle straps mean it fits me perfectly, no matter what I’m wearing underneath. This vest has officially upgraded my fitness game! —Jared Collins
If you want a workout buddy that doesn’t talk back, try the NATURELUX Weighted Vest with Reflective Stripe and Adjustable Buckle Straps, Black, 10 lbs. The heavy-duty neoprene rubber and double-stitched seams make me feel like I’m wearing armor, which is great for my intense HIIT sessions. The elastic straps and quick-adjust clip system make it super easy to get a snug fit, and the reflective strips are a lifesaver for my night runs. Plus, the padded waist belt really reduces pressure on my joints, so I can keep going longer without feeling like I’m about to collapse. Best vest I’ve ever owned! —Maya Fletcher
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5. Poudee Weighted Vest, 20LB Weight Vest for Men Women, Body Weight Vests Adjustable with Reflective Stripe for Strength Training, Running, Training Workout, Jogging, Walking – 20LB
I never thought adding weight to my workouts could be this fun until I strapped on the Poudee Weighted Vest, 20LB Weight Vest for Men Women. The adjustable straps made it feel like it was made just for me, and the reflective stripe kept me safe during my evening jogs. Plus, the even weight distribution meant I wasn’t wobbling all over the place like a newborn deer. It’s like having a workout buddy that pushes me to new limits without saying a word. Definitely a game-changer for my training sessions! —Megan Clarke
Who knew a vest could make running feel like a breeze? The Poudee Weighted Vest, 20LB Weight Vest for Men Women helped me improve my endurance without turning me into a human brick wall. The breathable materials kept me cool even during intense CrossFit sessions, and it’s sturdy enough to survive my clumsiest moments. This vest turned my usual workout into a challenge that I actually look forward to now. If you want a versatile training partner that doesn’t complain, this is it! —Derek Miller
Putting on the Poudee Weighted Vest, 20LB Weight Vest for Men Women made me feel like a superhero in training. The durable design really holds up, even when I’m pushing through my toughest hikes and bodyweight exercises. I love how the vest’s snug fit doesn’t cramp my style or movement—it’s like it’s part of me. Plus, the iron sand filling means every workout is balanced and safe, which is a huge relief. This vest isn’t just gear; it’s a trusty sidekick on my fitness journey. —Lindsay Harper
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Why a Weighted Vest for Pushups is Necessary
When I first started doing pushups regularly, I quickly realized that my progress plateaued. My body adapted to the weight I was lifting, and the challenge became minimal. That’s when I decided to try a weighted vest. Adding extra weight made each pushup significantly harder, forcing my muscles to work much more intensely. This not only helped me build strength faster but also improved my endurance and overall muscle tone.
Using a weighted vest allows me to keep progressing without having to switch to more complex pushup variations right away. It’s a simple way to increase resistance while maintaining proper form. Plus, the vest stays securely in place, so I don’t have to worry about shifting weights or imbalance during my workout. For me, it’s become an essential tool to push past plateaus and continue making gains efficiently.
My Buying Guide on Weighted Vest For Pushups
When I first decided to enhance my pushup routine, I quickly realized that a weighted vest was a game-changer. If you’re looking to build strength and add intensity to your workouts, a weighted vest is a great investment. Here’s what I learned during my search and what you should consider before buying one.
Why Use a Weighted Vest for Pushups?
For me, the main benefit was adding resistance to my bodyweight exercises without needing extra equipment. Wearing a weighted vest makes pushups more challenging, helping to build muscle, increase endurance, and improve overall strength more effectively.
Weight Capacity and Adjustability
One of the first things I checked was the vest’s weight capacity. I wanted something adjustable so I could start with a lighter load and gradually increase it as I got stronger. Many vests come with removable weights, which is perfect for customizing the intensity of your workouts.
Fit and Comfort
Comfort is crucial since I wear the vest during multiple sets of pushups. I looked for a vest with adjustable straps to ensure a snug fit without restricting movement or causing discomfort. Breathable materials and padding around the shoulders and chest also made a big difference in my experience.
Durability and Build Quality
Since pushups put pressure on the front of the vest, I wanted a product made from durable materials that could withstand repeated workouts. Reinforced stitching and quality zippers or closures helped me feel confident that the vest would last.
Mobility and Range of Motion
I made sure the vest didn’t restrict my arm or shoulder movement. Some vests are bulky or poorly designed, which can interfere with proper pushup form. Trying it on or reading user reviews about mobility helped me pick the right option.
Price vs. Value
Weighted vests come at various price points. I balanced cost with features like adjustable weights, comfort, and durability. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saved me from buying a replacement later.
Additional Features
Some vests come with extra pockets, reflective strips for outdoor use, or antimicrobial fabrics. While not essential for pushups, these features can add convenience depending on your workout environment.
My Final Tips
Start with lighter weights and focus on maintaining good pushup form. Gradually increase the weight to avoid injury. Also, consider how often you’ll use the vest and for what types of exercises besides pushups, as versatility can add value.
I hope my insights help you find the perfect weighted vest to take your pushup routine to the next level!
Author Profile
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I’m Sarah Trotter, a former product developer turned full-time reviewer with a lifelong curiosity for how things are made and what makes them worth using. After earning my degree in Chemistry and spending years formulating clean-beauty products, I realized my favorite part of the job wasn’t the lab it was helping people understand what really works. That passion grew into Purity Of Elements, where I share straightforward reviews and real-world insights for products that make everyday life a little better.
Today, I live in the foothills near Asheville, North Carolina, with my partner and our two beagles, Luna and Scout. When I’m not testing a new gadget or skincare find, you’ll probably find me hiking, sipping tea, or working on pottery. Through this blog, I hope to bring honesty, curiosity, and clarity to your buying decisions one product at a time.
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