I Tested The Hyperwear Hyper Vest Elite For 2 Weeks — What I Love & What I'd Change

Thanks to their ability to help you burn more calories1, increase bone density2, and contribute to your overall health and longevity, weighted vests are having a serious moment—and I predict this trend will last.

After extensively researching and testing the best weighted vests, the Hyperwear Hyper Vest Elite quickly became my go-to option—and I'm not surprised women of all ages and fitness levels are singing this vest's praises. Even those over 70 say it makes them feel stronger (an achievement I am always striving for).

I spent two weeks wearing the vest for walks, runs, and strength training sessions. Below, find my honest review of the Hyperwear Hyper Vest Elite, including what I love, what I'd change, and an expert's perspective.

Many weighted vests have a set amount of weight, but the Hyper Vest Elite has a unique design that allows you to adjust the total weight in 2.25-ounce increments. The thin, galvanized steel weights slide into tiny pockets across the entire vest, so you can evenly distribute the weight.

In terms of overal weight options, you can choose from a 10- or 15-pound vest—and the weight is adjustable in both.

The outer fabric is a CORDURA® polyester lycra blend, and the vest has a lining for added comfort. One-way stretch keeps the vest comfortable, while also holding the weights in place.

I tested the 10-pound Hyperwear Hyper Vest Elite for two weeks and wore it for 10 long walks, two short runs, and five strength training workouts. When wearing the vest for running, I adjusted the weight down to 5 pounds.

My first walk with the Hyper Vest was fairly difficult (the weather was hot in New York!), but by the end of the two week period I got used to the feeling of having weight strapped to me for these activities—and I actually found myself craving this added resistance and challenge.

What's surprised me most while testing various weighted vests is the positive impact it has on my form and posture. I find myself much more aware of how I move my body while I'm wearing the vest, which helps me get even more out of each workout.

The benefits are research-backed

When I learned that age-related muscle and bone loss is more common in women than men3, I instantly set out to find ways to maintain my own muscle mass—and I quickly came across weighted vests as a way to do just that. I've seen so many experts and athletes touting the benefits of weighted vests, and I love knowing that the equipment has research behind it, too.

In fact, one study on postmenopausal women found that exercising in a weighted vest helped prevent bone loss. And for my fellow runners out there, additional research has shown that training in a weighted vest can increase speed and endurance4.

Plus, some research has linked weighted vests to increased calorie burn5.

RELATED: No, Muscle Loss Isn't An Inevitable Part Of Aging: 4 Ways To Stop It

The design is customizable

The vest’s standout feature is how customizable it is. I like that you can adjust the heaviness in 2.25-ounce increments, allowing you to slowly increase weight over time (which experts recommend).

The side ties allow you to find the perfect fit to your body, and the vest is easy to put on and take off.

It's versatile

We previously named this the best weighted vest for running (thanks to the sweat-wicking, odor resistant fabric and form-fitting design)—but I love that it’s versatile enough to use for other activities. I've worn mine for running, walking, and strength training—and I plan to wear it for hiking as well, for a traditional rucking experience.

It's easy to integrate into your routine

To further aid in the vest's versatility, it's so simple to integrate into your routine. The most important factors when considering adding a weighted vest to your workouts are finding a high-quality option (check!) and making sure it has a great fit (check, check).

From there, the workouts are endless. Some women even say they'll wear this vest while doing chores around the house, running errands, or picking up their kids from school.

On days when I don't do a standard workout, I love having the option to wear the Hyper Vest at any point throughout my day.

It's durable & easy to care for

The Hyperwear Hyper Vest was a direct recommendation from Kelly Froelich, NASM-certified personal trainer and co-founder of Balanced. She says it’s a good investment if you’re in the market for a versatile, streamlined weighted vest with multiple (adjustable) weight options.  

Per Froelich, "By increasing force, weighted vests help build strength, cardiovascular endurance, and power. A weighted vest adds weight to the whole body instead of targeting a specific part of the body."

Like we said, women of all ages love this vest. Some purchased it as a convenient way to step up their existing workout routine, and others were recommended the vest by experts to help with osteoporosis.