This article looks at ten of the best ankle weights for women (and men) to help you decide which will be the best for you. It also contains tips on how to buy ankle weights.
Bodyweight exercises can provide an effective workout, but you may want to take things to the next level after a while.
You can do this with exercise equipment, but ankle weights are an excellent alternative if your budget is small or you don’t have space for a bulky machine.
Ankle weights allow you to work with extra resistance to burn more calories and further improve your muscle tone.
Most can also be used on the wrists to exercise your upper body.
Wrist and ankle weights are also helpful for regaining strength following an injury.
Whether you are buying them for rehabilitation purposes, to improve your general fitness, or to target specific muscle groups, with so many different brands and models to choose from, it can be difficult to know which ones to get.
This article aims to simplify the decision-making process for you.
But before we get into the reviews, we will look at how to buy ankle weights to suit your requirements.
Table of Contents
How to Buy Ankle Weights
To experience all of the benefits of ankle weights, you will need to choose the right set.
This will primarily be determined by your current fitness level and fitness goals.
There are also several other factors to consider that we will discuss below.
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Weight options
Exercising with ankle weights that are too heavy could result in an injury.
If the weights that are too light, you won’t get much benefit from them.
Beginners usually do best with 1 to 2 lb weights.
That may not sound like a lot, and they may not feel heavy when you pick them up. However, strap them on and start exercising, and you will feel the difference.
Experienced exercisers will probably be able to use 5 lb weights. This is just a guideline.
If 5 lb weights feel too heavy and affect your form, go lower.
Buying weights with adjustable resistance will enable you to increase the resistance as your strength and fitness improve.
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Comfort
It’s imperative to buy comfortable ankle weights.
There’s nothing worse than getting ten minutes into your workout to find that the slight rubbing of scratchy material against your skin that you noticed at the start of your session has become unbearable, and you have to stop.
Look for lined ankle weights or those with sufficient padding to prevent this. Wearing your weights over socks or long pants is another option.
It is also crucial to choose weights with a load that distributes evenly around your ankles or wrist.
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Fit
Ankle weights that rotate around your ankles as you move will cause discomfort and slow you down.
Buy weights with secure straps and a reliable closure system to prevent this.
You will then be able to adjust them for a snug and secure fit to suit the type of exercise you will be doing.
This is particularly advantageous if you have slim ankles or plan to wear the weights on your wrists.
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Adjustability
Ankle weights come in various weights.
As mentioned above, you should always start with a manageable weight.
However, over time, you will find that you need to progress to a heavier weight if you want to continue to grow your fitness.
Continually buying a new pair of weights can become expensive after a while, so you may want to consider buying adjustable ankle weights.
These allow you to slot iron bars or sandbags into integrated pockets to increase the resistance.
Another benefit that adjustable weights offer is that people of different fitness levels in your household will be able to use them.
They also offer the convenience of varying the load depending on the workout you want to do.
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Material
Look for ankle weights labeled as sweat-resistant.
These will help prevent chafing and enable you to stay drier and more comfortable, even if you sweat a lot as you exercise.
If the weights still feel wet and uncomfortable, wear them over a pair of absorbent socks.
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Durability
Weights that utilize neoprene are ideal as they should be durable. Reinforced stitching is also a plus.
Keep reading to find out about 10 of the best ankle weights for women. There’s nothing to stop guys from wearing them, but check to see that they are long enough.
Along with the recommendations, I will include the primary pros and cons, as stated by users.
Please keep in mind that there are always exceptions to this. What works for one person may not work as well for another.
Reviews of 10 of the Best Ankle Weights for Women
The best ankle weights for women are often also the best ankle weights for men.
The primary difference will be the length, the weight, and the available colors.
So if you are a hefty male reading this to help you to decide which weights to buy, check the descriptions below to make sure those you are thinking of buying will fit.
1) Fitnessery Ankle Weights
Fitnessery Ankle Weights are suitable to wear on the wrists or ankles.
They are available in pairs ranging from 1 lb through to 5 lb per weight, increasing in 1 lb increments.
Being extra long, they suit men and most women.
Made of neoprene (SCR) and cotton fabric with durable double-stitching, this is gentle against the skin, so you won’t have to worry about chafing. Velcro straps ensure a secure fit, whether worn on the ankles or wrists.
Iron sand filled, the weight is dispersed evenly for maximum comfort even during strenuous training.
The weights are black with silver reflective trim around the top, bottom, and join that helps to make you visible to traffic if you are exercising outdoors after dark.
Along with the weights, your purchase includes a mesh storage bag and a guide detailing how to get the most from the weights.
You will also receive an e-book containing 100 exercises you can do while wearing the weights.
You will also get a replacement/refund guarantee and a Lifetime warranty.
Pros:
- Extremely comfortable to wear
- They don’t slip
- Come with an excellent no-quibble guarantee and warranty
Cons:
- A small minority of buyers reported that the fabric wore quickly
- They may not be suitable to wear beneath slim-fitting pants.
Click on the blue link above visit Amazon and learn more about Fitnessary Ankle Weights.
2) Healthy Model Life Ankle Weights Set
The Healthy Model Life Ankle Weights Set comprises a pair of ankle weights for women with loads of 1/2 lb, 1 lb, 2 lb, 5 lb, and 8 lb each.
This broad range of options makes them suitable for everyone, from beginners to advanced level users.
Popular in top gymnasiums and a favorite fitness tool of Victoria’s Secret Angels, if ankle weights can look cool, these do.
The weights come in black with a bright pink and white logo. They are thickly padded for comfort, but they’re not overly bulky, so can be worn underneath clothing without being obvious.
The material feels comfortable against the skin, but a little more breathability could help to minimize sweating. Double stitching offers excellent durability.
The Velcro does a good job of holding the weights in place.
However, some buyers have stated that they slip slightly at times. Wearing them over a pair of socks or pants can help prevent this.
A standout feature of these weights that makes them one of the best ankle weights for slender women is that they adjust to fit the tiniest ankles. Some children can even wear them.
Some men have left positive feedback for the weights, but a couple of women of average weight have claimed that they are too tight.
For this reason, I would say to use caution when buying these if you are a guy.
They should work for most women, but anyone with thick ankles may find the fit rather snug.
Pros:
- Compact enough to wear beneath most slacks
- The weight is distributed evenly around the ankle
- The material doesn’t irritate the skin, even if you sweat profusely
Cons:
- They may slip a little when worn directly against the skin
- They might not suit people who have very thick ankles
For more information on the Healthy Model Life Ankle Weights Set, visit Amazon by clicking on the blue link above.
3) Gymenist Ankle Weights – Adjustable Pair
Gymenist Ankle Weights come in pairs of different weights, including 1 lb, 2 lb, and 4 lb.
There is also an adjustable pair, which we will be covering here.
These weights adjust to provide between approximately 1/2 lb of resistance and 5 1/2 lbs of resistance per ankle when the included iron bars are inserted vertically into slots along the edge of the wrap.
Adding and removing them is quick and easy.
The adjustments are made in 1/2 lb increments, enabling you to increase your workload as your strength improves.
The wrap itself is heavy-duty non-toxic neoprene that is soft against the skin. It is bright blue with a black trim.
Suitable for men and most women, they can also be worn on the wrists. And unlike is the case with some similar fitness aids, these stay in place.
Being quite compact, they fit beneath most pants.
Pros:
- The weights don’t slip during workouts
- Most buyers find the material soft against their skin
- Adding and removing weights is super easy and fast
Cons:
- They might be too big for fine-boned women
- The zipper is rather flimsy
Click on the blue link above to visit Amazon and learn more about Gymenist Ankle Weights.
4) Sportneer Ankle Weights
Sportneer Ankle Weights come in pairs that offer between 1 lb and 5 lbs of resistance per ankle.
Suitable for men and women, the Velcro straps adjust from between 5.9″ up to 14.56’’ to fit most ankles and wrists.
They are black with a white logo.
You will receive five tightly packed 1 lb sandbags when you buy these weights.
Slot one (or more) into the weight’s pocket(s) to increase the resistance from 1 lb to 5 lb per ankle in 1 lb increments, depending on how many sandbags you add.
You can then secure the bags into position using Velcro straps. These utilize a D-ring closure that ensures the sandbags don’t fall out and the weights stay securely in place.
The weights’ casing comprises breathable neoprene that will help to keep your skin dry during even the most intense workouts.
The fabric feels gentle against the skin, and it is wear and tear-resistant.
The reinforced stitching, outer trim, and straps are robust, while the cushioning provides comfort.
Pros:
- Suitable for use by most people, from petite females to burly males
- These weights are among the most comfortable on the market
- They stay in place without slipping
Cons:
- A small minority of customers complained that the weights are too small, so be sure to measure your wrists and ankles to make sure they will fit before you purchase
- Some buyers have stated that it is difficult to add and remove the sandbags
To learn more about Sportneer Ankle Weights, click on the blue link above to visit Amazon’s web site.
5) REEHUT Durable Ankle & Wrist Weights
REEHUT Durable Ankle & Wrist Weights are available in weights of 1/2 lb, 1 lb, 2 lb, 3 lb, 4 lb, 6 lb, 8 lb, and 10 lb each.
The 1/2 lb weights are black with red straps and trims.
The 1 lb weights are black with green straps and trims.
The 1 1/2 lbs weights are black with purple straps and trims.
The 2 lb weights are black with bright blue straps and trims.
Next are the 3 lb weights, which are black with orange straps and trims.
The 4 lb weights are black with sky blue straps and trims.
The 5 lb weights are black with gray straps and trims.
Suitable for men or women, the lightest pair can even be worn by children.
Iron-shot filled, the weights have a resilient mercerized cotton outer layer and an absorbent core.
This composition results in weights that are soft and comfortable against the skin and breathable, so you will feel drier even if you sweat a lot.
Securing utilizing a Velcro strap and a metal D-ring, there is minimal slippage during workouts.
They can be put on and taken off in seconds, and the fit adjusts just as quickly.
The weights come with a 30-day replacement or refund guarantee, a 2-year warranty, and lifetime customer support.
Pros:
- They’re comfortable to wear
- Most users say that the weights stay in place very well
- They can be worn beneath most trousers
Cons:
- A few users stated that they feel uncomfortable against their skin if not worn over socks or pants
- Several buyers complained that the weights initially have an unpleasant smell
To check out REEHUT Durable Ankle & Wrist Weights on Amazon, click on the blue link above.
6) Nordic Lifting Ankle Weights
Nordic Lifting Ankle Weights are suitable for men, women, or kids to wear on their ankles or wrists.
They come in pairs, with each weight weighing 1 lb, 2 lb, 3 lb, or 5 lb.
Crafted from top-quality padded neoprene fabric that is soft against the skin, this is sand-filled.
Reinforced stitching and an industrial-strength Velcro strap offer durability and security.
Available in Sleek Gray, bright pink, and lime green, they have a reflective trim that makes them suitable for outdoor use after the sun goes down.
Along with the weights, you will receive a handy carry bag, an instruction manual, and a 1-year warranty against defects.
Pros:
- They are made from top-quality, durable fabrics
- Most buyers have found them to be exceptionally comfortable
- The vast majority of users stated that they do not chafe the skin
Cons:
- A small minority of users had a problem with sand leaking out
- A couple of people with larger ankles noted that the buckle rubbed against their skin
If you would like to learn more about Nordic Lifting Ankle Weights, click on the blue link above to visit Amazon.
7) Empower Ankle Weights
Empower Ankle Weights for Women are available in two different weights.
Made of neoprene material, this is filled with iron sand and then double stitched for durability.
The lightest set comprises 1 1/2 lbs (each weight) for a combined weight of 3 lb per pair.
These are gray with violet pockets.
The other set offers adjustable weight starting at 1 1/2 lbs each, increasing to 2 lbs per ankle by slotting in a small iron bar or 2 1/2 lbs by adding two iron bars.
This set is gray with teal green pockets.
The weights’ casing is gentle against the skin.
A Velcro strap provides a secure fit that prevents the weight from moving around.
One downside to be aware of, though, is that the location of the Velcro could potentially irritate your skin or get in the way, depending on the exercise you are doing.
Pros:
- Adjusts to fit most size ankles
- Not likely to slip around
- The included rods can be added to provide additional resistance as you become stronger
Cons:
- The Velcro fastener may rub against your skin if you don’t wear socks
- Users with very slim ankles may find the iron bars uncomfortable
For more information on Empower Ankle Weights, click on the link blue link above to visit Amazon.
8) Gaiam Ankle Weights for Women and Men
Gaiam Ankle Weights for Women and Men are well-fitting and less bulky than many similar products.
Available in lime green and gray with a black trim, they offer 2 1/2 pounds of weight per ankle.
A pair offering 1 1/2 lbs of weight is available to wear on the wrists.
These are teal and gray with a black trim.
Comprising a soft polyester and breathable mesh fabric casing, this is iron-sand filled.
The stitching is durable, and the Velcro straps and fasteners are sturdy.
The weights are quick to put on and take off, and once strapped in place, most users claim that they stay there without slipping.
While most buyers have stated that the weights fit well, a number have said that the straps aren’t long enough for anyone who doesn’t have very tiny ankles.
Conversely, some customers have stated the opposite, saying that the straps are far too long and they can’t tighten them enough to wear comfortably. This applies to both the ankle and the wrist weights.
Pros:
- Stylish appearance
- Soft against the skin
- Minimal slippage has been reported
Cons:
- The sizing could be an issue
- A small minority of users noted that their weights leaked sand
Click on the relevant blue link above to be taken to Amazon’s website to find out more about Gaiam Ankle Weights for Women and Men or Gaim Wrist Weights.
9) All Pro Adjustable Ankle Weights
All Pro Adjustable Ankle Weights are suitable for men and women. They are available in a few different designs.
Here, we will be looking at the bright blue pair with black straps and trim that comes in pairs offering up to 2 1/2 lbs of weight per ankle.
There is also the option to buy a single weight that is equal to a maximum of 5 lb, 10 lb, or 20 lbs of weight.
Comprising a 50% nylon, 25% foam, and 25% polyester casing with exterior pockets, this is very durable.
A padded internal flap provides comfort, and a Velcro strap offers a secure fit.
The 2 1/2 lb pair comes with ten 1/2 lb iron bars, providing five lbs of weight per ankle.
Slip one bar into a pocket, and the weight will be equal to 1/2 lb. Put two in, and it will provide 1 lb of weight, etc., to a maximum of 2 1/2 lbs for each ankle.
The 5 lb, 10 lb, and 20 lb weights work the same way, but the bars supplied weigh 1 lb each.
Pros:
- The weights are exceptionally durable
- Adding and removing the iron bars is a quick and easy process
- The Velcro strap is strong, and it provides a secure fit
Cons:
- The straps are initially a bit fiddly to fasten
- The weights may be too big and therefore slip around if you have slim ankles
If you think the All Pro Adjustable Ankle Weights could be what you’re looking for, click on the blue link above to visit Amazon, where you can find out more.
10) Valeo Adjustable Ankle and Wrist Weights
Valeo Adjustable Ankle and Weights are available in pairs of weights with a maximum of 2 1/2 lb, 5 lb, or 10 lbs each.
They come in one color, which is black.
Made of durable polyester with a soft-against-the-skin lining, each comes with compact iron-filled sandbags that weigh 1/2 lb, 1 lb, or 2 lb each, depending on the set.
The sandbags are slotted into or removed from the pockets to increase or decrease the weight load.
The weights are padded for comfort, and they feature a metal D-ring and dual-strap self-gripping Velcro closure.
This system is easy to use, and it enables the fit to be adjusted to suit the individual.
Pros:
- The closure system provides a secure fit with no to very minimal slippage for most people
- The sandbags are quick to add or remove, and they stay in place once inserted
- The resistance load can be increased as your fitness improves
Cons:
- They may be too big and so slip around and cause irritation if you’re ankles and wrists are slender, in which case you may have to wear them over thick socks
- Some users have stated that their weights leaked sand
For more info on Valeo Adjustable Ankle and Wrist Weights, click on the blue link above to visit Amazon.
Final Thoughts on Ankle Weights for Women
If you enjoy your current workout but want to kick things up a notch, wearing ankle weights or wrist weights can help you take things to another level and achieve your fitness goals faster.
Strap-on weights can also help you gain strength and improve your muscle tone while rehabilitating from an injury.
Strapping them onto your wrists will increase the challenge of upper body workouts.
When worn on your ankles, you can accelerate lower body muscle toning and burn more calories. They are also useful for adding resistance while walking, jogging, running, and doing other forms of cardio.
If you are getting back into training following a severe injury, it’s a good idea to consult a physical therapist before using weights.
He, or she, will devise a suitable program for you and advise you on what weights to use.
If you plan on using the weights while undertaking an aerobic activity, I recommend that you don’t do so until you have been exercising for a while. This is because if you haven’t exercised before or for some time, using weights right away could result in an injury.
Click here to find out about the benefits and possible risks of wearing ankle weights.
