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7 Best Running Weights – 2021 Buyers Guide
If you want to increase your strength and balance, define your muscle tone, and improve your performance as an athlete, then you will love the running weights featured on our list below.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Comfort
If you’re not going to be comfortable, your run’s not going to be enjoyable and it’s likely that your running weights will just end up in a corner somewhere.
Obviously, this is one of the main factors you want to consider. You want to look for an option with padding, but not too much padding.
Foam padding is a good choice, as it’s flexible yet supportive. The material needs to move with you and not be restrictive in any way. The fastening system is an important factor to look at in regards to comfort. You want something that’s very adjustable, Velcro is a good choice, as long as it’s good quality.
Poorly crafted Velcro can irritate the skin and fail to give you a tight, secure fit. If you experience discomfort while wearing a pair of running weights, it’s probably a good idea to re-evaluate your choice and choose from one of the options listed above.
You don’t want to end up with skin irritation or chafing! We gave heavy consideration to the level of comfort of the products on our list.
Durability
Since these weights are going to be with you through vigorous runs and workouts, you need to make sure they can hold up.
Let’s face it, anything you use during your workouts has the potential to suffer from some wear and tear. Many running weights on the market today use reinforced stitching, which is a very important factor in durability.
Reinforced stitching means the fabric is very unlikely to tear or rip. This is especially important when it comes to running weights, as many of them contain sand. The last thing you want is to have that sand spill out! You’ll have a mess on your hands, plus, you’ll need new weights.
So, don’t forget about the importance of reinforced stitching! If you’re going to be running outside with them, keep that in mind when making your decision. You’ll want to look for something that can withstand a wide range of weather conditions, such as something made with water-repellent material.
Ease of Use
Typically, you’re going to want to find something with adjustable weights.
While many of the models on the market today are capable of this, there are some that still aren’t. Having the ability to switch up the amount of weight you’re using is great for adding variety to your workouts. Being able to change between levels of resistance and intensity is one of the most desirable traits sought after by customers.
Chances are, you’re going to want to be able to add or take away weight depending on the duration of your run, which muscles you’re trying to target, and other factors. You want to look for something that says “weight adjustable.”
Materials
The material determines durability, flexibility, and comfort.
Typically, you’re going to want to look for something that uses premium nylon or neoprene. Not only are they designed for comfort, but they easily wick away moisture and sweat, ensuring that your ankles or wrists stay dry.
You should be able to maintain natural movement and not feel hindered in any way. Obviously, your legs are going to feel different when you strap a weight to them, but you shouldn’t feel like you’re restricted in your movement.
Some models have reflective strips stitched onto the exterior material, which is a great thing to have for added safety if you’re going to be running outside in low-visibility conditions.
Size
This is an especially important factor to think about when purchasing a set of running weights that are intended for both ankle and wrist wear.
While many of these types of weights fit most people’s ankles well, there are typically some complaints about them being way too bulky for the wrist. To reduce the chance of you having the same experience, if you’re looking for an ankle/wrist set, you’ll want to find something with a long, adjustable strap with a very secure fastening system.
Additionally, some find that certain brands, especially those catered towards women, fit too tightly. Everyone’s body is different. Always read the product information to find exact measurements, so you can be sure before you order that they’re going to be a good fit for you.
Our Top 7 Best Running Weights
1. All Pro
The All-Pro ankle weights, sold in pairs, are specially designed to allow a full range of motion while wearing. Adjust the amount of weight to achieve the level of resistance you want. One size fits most. A touch fastener closure secures the weights tightly in place.
Read moreComfort
With soft padding, you’ll never have to worry about these weights being uncomfortable around your ankles. The flaps are cushioned to ensure that they stay securely in place. Constructed with ContourFoam, this option is designed to fit you perfectly.
Durability
If you want a pair of durable weights, then you will love that we haven't found any durability issues with these; however, don't take them out on technical terrain if you don't want them to snag on anything.
Ease of Use
These running weights are really easy to use and designed to be worn on your ankles. You can adjust them to your liking, so you are comfortable and secure when you wear them out on your runs.
Materials
Made of high-quality and durable materials, the weights are definitely comfortable as well--although it is important to note that they are a little bulky.
Size
The All Pro weights are available in 4 different sizes. You can either purchase a pair with 2.5lbs per ankle, 5lbs per ankle, 10lbs per ankle, or 20lbs per ankle. Durable iron weights are able to be adjusted in small increments so you can receive the exact amount of weight you’re looking for.
2. CAP Barbell
The CAP barbel adjustable ankle weights are really durable, comfortable, and easy to use. They will add resistance to your runs or workouts and can be easily adjusted even when you are on the go. If you want a versatile pair of weights then you will love these—and the best part is that they won’t get in the way of your shoes while running.
Read moreComfort
The CAP Barbell running weights are really comfortable and easy to use. They are padded for additional protection and their external pockets make them easy to switch between the weight you want to use.
Durability
If you want a pair of durable weights, then you will love these. They are made of high-quality material that will ensure that they will last you for the long haul.
Ease of Use
You can easily adjust them to fit you comfortably and pick and choose what weight you want to use.
Materials
When it comes to the materials, you will love these weights. They feature a seamless design that won’t rub you the wrong way even though they are pretty bulky.
Size
The CAP Barbell running weights are designed to be one size fits all. You can adjust them to fit you securely and comfortably. You can also pick and choose what weight you want to use—anywhere from 10 to 20 pounds.
3. Gaiam
The Gaiam brand is really well-known and has an established reputation that many users have come to love and trust. These ankle weights are easy to use, comfortable, and reflective.
Read moreComfort
If you want a comfortable set of weights, then you will love these! They are adjustable and fit you perfectly. They won’t get in the way of your running shoes, so you can stay comfortable when you wear them out on your runs.
Durability
These running weights are really durable and built to last. They won’t move around when you wear them, so you won’t get any chafing or blisters. They are reinforced and will hold up t the test of time as well.
Ease of Use
These running weights are designed to be really easy to use and adjust when you need to wear them. If you want to be able to take your weights anywhere, these are also really compact and portable.
Materials
The closure is made of Velcro. The fabric is durable and high-quality as well.
Size
The Gaiam running weights are designed to be a one size fits all; however, some users report that these can be a little small for some. They each weigh 2.5 pounds, for a total of 5 pounds.
4. Nordic Lifting
This option can be used as either ankle or wrist weights. They’re ergonomically designed for superior durability and use reinforced stitching to ensure that no tears occur. These are definitely a must-have for any runner or workout enthusiast! One size fits all.
Read moreComfort
Neoprene padding protects your ankle or wrist while providing you with a soft, comfortable fit. A large Velcro pad enables you to switch them easily from ankle to wrist while still maintaining a secure fit.
Durability
These running weights are really durable and built to last. Few users experience any durability issues, and those that did love the 1-year warranty these weights come with.
Ease of Use
The Nordic Lifting running weights are really versatile and easy to use. They can be worn on your ankles or wrist and you can easily adjust them to fit you securely and comfortably.
Materials
These weights are one of the most affordable models on the market. They also come with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty. High-quality construction.
Size
The Nordic Lifting weights, which come in pairs, are available in either 1, 2, or 3-pound versions. They even have reflective trim on them, making them perfect for safe outdoor use.
5. Yes4All
This ankle option is designed for both comfort and durability. With a neoprene exterior and a sturdy outer trim, you can be sure that they’ll hold up even through your most intense workouts.
Read moreComfort
Yes4All designed these weights to hold up through even the most intense workouts. With a D-ring and an easy to adjust wide Velcro strap, you’ll receive the best fit possible.
Durability
The running weights are not the most durable option on our list--but if you take care of them they will last you for a while.
Ease of Use
They are really easy to use and adjust. You just have to put them on, make sure you are comfortable, and you are ready to go.
Materials
The weights are made of neoprene, so if you something that is waterproof--or close to it--then you will love these.
Size
The Yes4All ankle weights come in a pair. A variety of weights are available, ranging from 1 to 3 pounds. They increase in increments of .5 pounds.
6. Nayoya
These high-quality ankle weights are a simple way to increase the value of your workout. Premium material and heavy-duty padding ensure you the most comfortable wear possible.
Read moreComfort
These weights were designed to provide a superior fit. Crafted with premium neoprene and soft, moisture-absorbing material, you’ll never have to worry about discomfort. The weights securely fasten in place with an adjustable strap so you can effortlessly achieve your desired fit.
Durability
The lightweight running weights are pretty durable, although they can snag if you decide you want to take them out on the trail or technical terrain. They are made of high-quality materials you can rely on though, so you can definitely trust that they will last.
Ease of Use
Since these weights are so light, you will love that that they are easily portable--you can take them with you anywhere you go. All you have to do is slip them on and adjust them to fit you--and you are done.
Materials
If you want a pair of weights that are also moisture-wicking, then you will love that these weights are made of neoprene. This material allows them to be fast-drying and ensures that you stay comfortable even when you get sweaty.
Size
The Noyoya weights, sold in pairs, each weigh 1.5 pounds.
7. Healthy Model Life
This model, is, well, used by models. This highly reviewed set is used by Victoria's Secret Angels as well as some of the best gyms in New York City. They are really comfortable and secure and the company that makes them stands behind their product with a full year replacement or refund warranty.
Read moreComfort
These are made of a soft material that feels good against your skin. Note that users reported they are a bit bulkier than they appear to be in their pictures.
Durability
The company backs up their one-year full-refund or replacement warranty and they wouldn't offer that if these didn't stand up to long-term use. We did find a couple of mentions of them tearing, but it didn't seem to be a widespread issue.
Ease of Use
They secure well to your ankles with a velcro system that makes them simple to put on and take off.
Materials
The company does not disclose the exact fabrics these are made with; however, they seem to be neoprene with durable double stitching. The weight comes from sand that is placed inside the weights, which one user complained fell to the bottom of the weight during use.
Size
This set weighs 10 pounds. These are designed for women and may not fit those with thicker ankles. There were several reviews from men who enjoyed using them and found them to fit perfectly.