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Friday, December 13, 2024

The ten Greatest Ankle Weights of 2024, Examined


Utilizing ankle weights is a good way so as to add resistance to your exercise routine, which can assist enhance stability and enhance power. Newbie to superior exercisers can put on them on their ankles and, in some circumstances, their wrists throughout body weight workout routines, cardio, Pilates sequences, and extra. Plus, due to their measurement, they’re simple to tackle the go or add to your dwelling exercise house

To seek out the very best ankle weights available on the market, we first spoke with health specialists about what key options to search for in a high-quality possibility. Then, we examined 22 expert-approved ankle weights from high manufacturers in The Verywell Testing Lab, utilizing every pair whereas finishing two decrease physique, core, and arm exercise circuits. One circuit was carried out whereas dry, and the opposite was carried out after spritzing ourselves with water to simulate very sweaty situations. We evaluated every pair for setup, ease of use, adjustability, match, consolation, versatility, portability, and worth. We additionally had an authorized yoga and Pilates teacher from our Overview Board evaluate this text for accuracy.

Bala Bangles

PHOTO: Amazon

Key Specs

Weight per Ankle: 1, 2, or 3 kilos (adjustable) | Materials: Metal, silicone | Closure: Velcro | Dimensions: 13 x 3 inches | Our Total Ranking: 4.8/5

Who They’re For

Greatest for newbie to intermediate exercisers who need a high-quality, adjustable, and comfy set of trendy ankle weights.

Why We Love Them

Bala’s Bangles blew us away with their high-quality, comfy silicone materials, glossy look, and flexibility. We love how simple they’re to lock and regulate to our ankles or wrists earlier than starting our exercise routine. We additionally love that we will simply regulate the burden of every pair by 2-ounce increments. Because of their sturdy Velcro closure and grippy silicone exterior, they by no means budged, even throughout tougher workout routines like standing leg lifts and mountain climbers

We love that they’re water resistant and don’t maintain on to sweat or moisture. They’re additionally a breeze to scrub—spray them with a pure cleansing agent and wipe any grime off with a fabric. And since they’re made with recycled metal filling, they will not leak onto your flooring and create a large number like their sand-filled rivals would possibly. Plus, we like that they are glossy and classy sufficient to put on on health walks or to run errands. 

Potential Flaws

  • These are pricier than different choices on our listing, however they’re sturdy and constructed to final.

The Sculpt Society 2 LB Weight Ankle Weights

PHOTO: The Sculpt Society

Key Specs

Weight per Ankle: 1 or 2 kilos (adjustable) | Materials: Silicone | Closure: Adjustable strap with magnet | Dimensions: 14.1 x 3.7 inches | Our Total Ranking: 4.7/5

Who They’re For

Greatest for newbie to intermediate exercisers who need a sturdy, easy-to-adjust set of ankle weights.

Why We Love Them

Sculpt Society’s Ankle Weights intently resemble Bala Bangles with their sturdy silicone materials and comparable design. Nonetheless, this set closes with an adjustable strap with a magnetic closure for added safety. We particularly appreciated this characteristic as we carried out faster-paced and extra superior workout routines. After testing each choices, we predict they are a stable substitute for Bala Bangles, particularly when you can snag them once they’re on sale. 

After we examined the 2-pound possibility, we liked how comfy they have been. We additionally like that every ankle weight is simple to regulate in 4-ounce increments. You merely slide on or off a number of of the eight included blocks so as to add or take away weight. We significantly like this weight adjustment mechanism, which we discover extra seamless than different choices that require you to take away or re-insert weighted pockets into the ankle weights, which will be tough.

Potential Flaws

  • These ankle weights often pulled our physique hair. To keep away from this, you could wish to put on these with thick exercise leggings and/or an extended sleeve shirt.
  • Throughout some workout routines, we observed that one ankle weight felt barely heavier than the opposite. Nonetheless, usually, their resistance felt comparable.

Amazon P Volve 3 LB Ankle Weights

PHOTO: Amazon
Execs

  • Comfortable and comfy

  • Keep in place

  • Excessive-quality

Key Specs

Weight per Ankle: 1.5 or 3 kilos | Materials: Neoprene | Closure: Velcro | Dimensions: 11 x 4.3 inches | Our Total Ranking: 4.7/5

Who They’re For

Greatest for newbie to intermediate exercisers in search of a extra budget-friendly set of ankle weights and for many who already love P.volve’s train system.

Why We Love Them

Price range-friendly merchandise generally sacrifice high quality for the value, however this is not the case with P. Volve’s 3 LB Ankle Weights. These ankle weights are a part of Jennifer Aniston’s favourite line of exercise merchandise, and so they combine seamlessly with the remainder of P. Volve’s train system. Nonetheless, they may also be used alone in any exercise the place you wish to add a little bit resistance.

After we examined the 3-pound weights, we liked the texture of their comfortable neoprene materials. Plus, they didn’t slip after we affixed them to our ankles throughout workout routines, together with extra high-intensity strikes. That includes a standard design with a Velcro closure, we love how comfy they really feel in opposition to our pores and skin. We recognize that we by no means have to fret about their easy materials catching on our physique hair or pinching our pores and skin.

Potential Flaws

  • We want their Velcro straps have been longer for a extra adjustable match to accommodate totally different calf and wrist sizes.
  • Whilst you cannot regulate their weight, you possibly can select between two resistance choices.

ProsourceFit Ankle/Wrist and Arm/Leg Weights

PHOTO: Amazon
Execs

  • Simple to make small, exact changes

  • Securely match a spread of ankle and wrist sizes

  • Price range-friendly

Key Specs

Weight per Ankle: 1-15 kilos (bought individually) | Materials: Neoprene (1-3.5 kilos), nylon (5-7.5 kilos), iron pellets | Closure: Velcro | Dimensions: 9.5 x 4 inches | Our Total Ranking: 4.7/5

Who They’re For

Greatest for newbie to superior exercisers who need a budget-friendly, comfy set of ankle weights for strengthening and bodily (PT) workout routines.

Why We Love Them

ProsourceFit’s Ankle Weights stand out for his or her comfy, extremely adjustable match. After we wrapped them round our ankles, we liked their comfortable, comfortable really feel. After we examined the 2-pound possibility, their cushioning properly padded our ankles and prevented discomfort as we carried out standing leg lifts, double leg lifts, donkey kicks, and extra. 

We actually like these ankle weights’ lengthy, adjustable Velcro straps, which loop again via a steel tab, making it simple to place them on and make small, exact changes, even in the course of our exercise routines. In contrast to another ankle weights we examined, we love that this budget-friendly pair comfortably suits a spread of ankle and wrist sizes. Plus, we additionally love that these simply roll right into a small ball, making them a breeze to tackle the go. 

Potential Flaws

  • Relying on the dimensions of your calves, the Velcro could rub in opposition to your pores and skin, so you could wish to put on full-length leggings or crew socks whereas utilizing these ankle weights.
  • Whereas these labored nice after we carried out slower-paced workout routines, we predict they’d slide round a bit throughout faster-paced exercises.

Most Helpful Perception

“I discovered these weights comfy on each my ankles and wrists. Their materials is well-cushioned and comfortable; even when tightly wrapped round my ankle, they nonetheless felt supportive and comfortable. They’re additionally very simple and fast to regulate and permit for a lot of inches of various sizes. As a result of there’s a lot room for measurement changes, you possibly can put on a wide range of pants or socks—they’d even match over denims.” —Charlotte Wells, Verywell Match product tester

Sportneer Ankle Weights

PHOTO: Amazon

Key Specs

Weight per Ankle: 0.5-2 kilos (adjustable) | Materials: Neoprene | Closure: Velcro | Dimensions: 10.6 x 5.7 inches | Our Total Ranking: 4.2/5

Who They’re For

Greatest for newbie to intermediate exercisers who need budget-friendly, extremely customizable ankle weights.

Why We Love Them

Sportneer’s Ankle Weights are our high choose for an adjustable, extremely customizable, and budget-friendly possibility. They characteristic a standard ankle weight design with 5 detachable pockets with sand filling and a Velcro closure. We love that you simply get 5 weights in a single with these, making them a really versatile possibility that may be adjusted to go well with the wants of newbie to intermediate customers.

Throughout testing, we liked that these match our ankles and wrists snugly and have been a breeze to regulate for a extra personalized match. They keep put whether or not we use them for higher or decrease physique workout routines. And so they by no means slip, even on very moist pores and skin.

Potential Flaws

  • Throughout testing, one sandbag ripped barely after we eliminated it and reinserted it a number of occasions. Nonetheless, we nonetheless suppose this selection affords good worth for its value.

Walmart The Cuff Original Adjustable Ankle and Wrist Weight

PHOTO: Walmart

Key Specs

Weight per Ankle: 0.25-25 kilos (bought individually) | Materials: Vinyl | Closure: Velcro | Dimensions: 12 x 4.25 inches | Our Total Ranking: 4.7/5 

Who They’re For

Greatest for newbie to superior exercisers who need a high-quality ankle weight that is available in heavier weight choices. 

Why We Love Them

The Cuff Unique Ankle and Wrist Weight includes a ton of weight choices and an extended closure strap, offering a safe match for low to high-intensity exercises. With their high-quality, glossy design, we predict they provide off a cool, classic boxing vibe. Plus, with three giant Velcro pads evenly spaced throughout every weight, it’s simple to discover a robust grip round our ankles. Throughout testing, we liked how their materials felt in opposition to our pores and skin and the way their rectangular design coated our whole ankles with none strain factors or discomfort. 

Their weight felt evenly distributed as we carried out core, higher, and decrease physique workout routines. We love that their double-stitching gives sturdiness whereas the vinyl materials is simple to scrub–simply wipe it down with a comfortable, damp fabric. And whereas they go as much as very heavy weight choices, Kollins Ezekh, knowledgeable coach with over 15 years of experience, recommends beginning with a lighter weight and growing as you progress.  

Potential Flaws

  • Whereas these weights have been simple to safe round our ankles, they have been a bit tougher to placed on our wrists.
  • These are bought in singles, in contrast to different choices on our listing, that are bought as units.

Most Helpful Perception

“They’re extremely comfy, transportable, and well-made. Their lengthy adjustment strap is actually useful for securing the weights onto my ankles and wrists. There’s a pleasant quantity of Velcro pads positioned alongside the design to permit for a really personalized match.” —Jordan Legislation, Verywell Match product tester

Amazon The DB Method The Dreamlets

PHOTO: Amazon

Key Specs

Weight per Ankle: 2 kilos | Materials: Polyester, spandex, iron weights | Closure: Velcro | Dimensions: 14 x 3.4 inches | Our Total Ranking: 4.3/5

Who They’re For

Greatest for newbie to intermediate exercisers trying so as to add resistance to higher physique workout routines or for kickboxers who wish to add some weight to their punches.

Why We Love Them

Whereas many ankle weights can be utilized interchangeably on wrists and ankles, DB Methodology’s Dreamlets have been uniquely made for wrist workout routines and characteristic thumbholes. We expect this makes them extra comfy to put on round your wrists than bulkier ankle weights.

These wrist weights match equally to weightlifting gloves, however every one provides a few kilos to your exercise. That will not sound like lots of weight, however it will possibly add a substantial problem to high-rep, body weight workout routines like entrance raises, lateral raises, and tricep kickbacks. We love how safe their Velcro closures are, maintaining our wrist weights in place even throughout extra dynamic actions like leaping jacks and after we get sweaty.

Potential Flaws

  • The load of every pair is not adjustable. However when you’re comfy utilizing 2-pound weights, this should not be an issue.

Amazon Henkelion Adjustable Ankle Weights

PHOTO: Amazon
Execs

  • In a position to regulate weight in small increments

  • Breathable, with ample cushioning

  • Massive, adjustable strap for safe match

Key Specs

Weight per Ankle: 2, 3, 5, or 8 kilos (adjustable) | Materials: Cotton, neoprene | Closure: Velcro | Dimensions: 13.07 x 4.68 inches | Our Total Ranking: 4.2/5

Who They’re For

Greatest for newbie to intermediate exercisers searching for sturdy, safe, and heavy-duty ankle weights for focused workout routines. 

Why We Love Them

Henkelion’s Adjustable Ankle Weights are our high choose for anybody searching for safe, sturdy, and high-quality ankle weights. This ankle weight’s giant, adjustable Velcro strap is powerful, offering a reliable match, significantly for individuals with bigger ankles or wrists. We liked how simple these have been to placed on and take off. We additionally liked their comfortable, breathable cotton materials and ample cushioning, which supplied added consolation throughout our sweaty, intense exercises.

Together with their cotton exterior, these weights characteristic a neoprene materials and bolstered stitching. This gives the sturdiness to resist intensive use, a necessary characteristic for high-quality ankle weights like these. We love that they’ve particular person weight luggage, permitting us to regulate their weight in small increments. Every bag’s weight will depend on the set’s complete weight, with choices obtainable for varied health ranges and objectives. 

Potential Flaws

  • After we used these on moist pores and skin, they slid throughout high-intensity dynamic workout routines, making them a more sensible choice for slower-paced, focused workout routines like squats and kickbacks.

Most Helpful Perception

“That is clearly a robust product fabricated from powerful supplies. It’s one thing you’d purchase if you need it to final for a very long time. Plus, its material feels very comfortable and effectively cushioned.” —Lexi Lane, Verywell Match product tester

Amazon Gaiam Fitness Ankle Weights

PHOTO: Amazon
Execs

  • Thick, safe Velcro strap

  • Snug, breathable material

  • Compact and straightforward to move

Key Specs

Weight per Ankle: 2.5 or 5 kilos | Materials: Neoprene, polyester, mesh with sand filling | Closure: Velcro | Dimensions: 7.13 x 5.39 inches | Our Total Ranking: 4.2/5

Who They’re For

Greatest for intermediate to superior exercisers who want breathable weights for sweaty exercises, like scorching yoga lessons or out of doors coaching classes.

Why We Love Them

GAIAM’s Restore Ankle Weights rapidly nabbed our spot for the very best moisture-wicking possibility, due to their comfortable and extremely breathable building. Throughout testing, we liked that their supplies successfully absorbed moisture whereas their mesh supplied an ethereal really feel round our ankles. Plus, we didn’t expertise chafing as we accomplished our exercise circuits.

They characteristic a giant Velcro closure, which supplied a steady match and comfy weight distribution as we carried out double leg lifts, donkey kicks, and extra. Ezkeh says {that a} thick Velcro strap is the first characteristic he appears for in a very good ankle weight, because the thicker the strap, the higher the safety across the ankle, and these ankle weights undoubtedly ship. Though they arrive in heavier choices, their design is glossy and compact. We discovered them simple to hold in our health club bag to move post-workout. 

Potential Flaws

  • These ankle weights could also be too giant for smaller ankles and calves. 
  • These weights supply restricted measurement adjustability, which can compromise their stability for some throughout higher-intensity exercises.

Most Helpful Perception

“I used these on my naked ankles and located the material texture fairly comfy. The load was distributed comfortably over the floor of the weights and I did not really feel any uncomfortable presssure in anybody spot.” —Jordan Legislation, Verywell Match product tester

Tracy Anderson UWRAPS Vegan Leather Ankle/Wrist Weights

PHOTO: Tracy Anderson
Execs

  • Excessive-quality supplies

  • Plush, comfy padding

  • Evenly distributed weight

Key Specs

Weight per Ankle: 1.5 kilos | Materials: Vegan leather-based, steel ball filling | Closure: Velcro | Dimensions: Not listed | Our Total Ranking: 4.2/5

Who They’re For

Greatest for individuals searching for fashionable, comfy, high-quality ankle weights for on a regular basis use. 

Why We Love Them

Tracy Anderson’s UWRAPS Ankle Weights completely mix type and performance. These weights are available in a number of glossy shade choices with gold accents. Throughout testing, we discovered them simple to placed on and safe round our ankles, and their weight felt evenly distributed. We particularly love their plush cushioning, which conforms properly round our ankles and wrists as we carry out our exercise circuits. We additionally discovered they felt particularly mild across the bony elements of our ankles and wrists–a pleasant contact for these with extra delicate pores and skin.

Constructed of vegan leather-based, these ankle weights are simple to scrub and moisture-resistant. Whereas they’re designed with Tracy Anderson Methodology lessons in thoughts (which include aerobics, cardio, dance-based workout routines, and mat work), you possibly can seamlessly incorporate them into any low-intensity exercise, whether or not at dwelling, the health club, or an train class. And we predict they’re fashionable sufficient to be worn out and about.

Potential Flaws

  • With a comparatively small Velcro strap, these ankle weights present restricted measurement adjustability and should slide on smaller ankles and wrists. 
  • These weights are pricier than different choices on our listing, though we predict their high quality exceeds their worth. 

Most Helpful Perception

“My favourite factor about these weights is their consolation; typically with ankle weights, I can really feel an uncomfortable strain in opposition to my ankle bones, however these are well-cushioned and by no means dig into or pinch my pores and skin.” —Charlotte Wells, Verywell Match product tester

What We’ve Up to date

  • Since publishing our preliminary examined roundup of the very best ankle weights, we’ve re-evaluated our earlier picks and hands-on examined 5 further ankle weight choices from high manufacturers. Primarily based on our testing, we’ve evaluated every pair for setup, ease of use, adjustability, match, consolation, versatility, portability, and worth and included these new insights in our article.
  • Primarily based on our testing insights, we’ve reworked two superlatives and product picks, together with Most Snug and Greatest Heavier Weights. We’ve additionally added three new superlatives: Most Sturdy, Greatest Moisture-Wicking, and Greatest Glossy. 
  • We consulted two new specialists, an authorized private coach, and a health professional, to raised perceive how one can safely use ankle weights and guarantee the entire data in our roundup is updated. 

What to Search for When Searching for Ankle Weights

  • Weight: Our specialists advocate selecting a weight with which you’ll carry out many reps, like 2- or 3-pound choices. Extra superior exercisers could wish to go for a 5-pound pair. Whereas heavier pairs of ankle weights can be found, they might put an excessive amount of strain in your wrist and ankle joints, resulting in put on and tear over time. Additionally, notice that heavier weights could also be pricier.
  • Materials: Many ankle weights are crafted with neoprene for breathability. Some softer choices are coated in polyester, cotton, or terry fabric. Whereas these supplies can really feel extra comfy in opposition to the pores and skin, they’re susceptible to tearing, so that they is probably not as sturdy as different choices. Ankle weights fabricated from silicone are simpler to scrub and extra sweat-resistant, however they are typically pricier.
  • Filling: Ankle weights are usually crammed with sand, metal shot, iron powder, or water. Considered one of our specialists recommends sand filling, saying it molds to your physique greater than different fillings. Nonetheless, some sand-filled choices could leak. If you happen to’re significantly involved with leakage, you could wish to contemplate an possibility with metal filling.
  • Closure Sort: Selecting ankle weights with a dependable closure is important to avoiding accidents or painful chafing throughout train. Our specialists like Velcro closures as a result of they’re simple to make use of and will be adjusted to suit most ankle sizes and shapes. If you happen to’re not a fan of Velcro or need a extra exact adjustment mechanism, you could go for a pair with a magnetized belt buckle.

Verywell Match / Michelle Parente


How We Examined the Ankle Weights

To seek out the very best ankle weights, we examined 22 choices in our Lab, sporting them whereas we carried out leg lifts, mountain climbers, overhead presses, and extra. When testing ankle weights, we consider every set based mostly on the next key standards.

  • Setup: Upon unboxing, we notice how simple they’re to arrange and start utilizing. We contemplate whether or not they come absolutely assembled and, if not, how in depth the setup course of is. We additionally ensure that the entire obligatory elements are included. 
  • Ease of Use: After finishing two train circuits, we notice how simple every ankle weight is to make use of all through the exercise. We prioritize choices which can be simple to lock round our ankles and wrists and don’t require fixed changes.
  • Adjustability: For choices with adjustable weights, we notice how simple it’s to regulate the burden throughout our train routine. We additionally contemplate whether or not the burden increments are affordable for many health ranges. We prioritize ankle weights that regulate simply with out requiring us to reference their instruction handbook.
  • Match: Ankle weights carry out effectively on this class in the event that they match snugly all through the exercise with out sliding round. We additionally search for pairs with a safe closure that doesn’t transfer or come undone throughout workout routines, even after we begin to sweat. We prioritize choices with comfortable, safe closures that match totally different sizes of ankles and wrists.
  • Consolation: When assessing for consolation, we contemplate how they really feel and whether or not they irritate our pores and skin or tug on our physique hair. We additionally notice if their weight is evenly distributed or if one feels heavier than the opposite. We prioritize comfortable, comfy ankle weights with a good distribution of weight that feels nice all through our exercise and in sweatier situations. 
  • Versatility: To make sure the ankle weights supply sufficient versatility, we notice whether or not we will comfortably carry out each train in our full-body circuit with every pair with out adjusting our type. Pairs that rating excessive in versatility can be utilized on ankles and wrists for a lot of workout routines.
  • Portability: To evaluate the portability of every ankle weight, we notice whether or not every pair comes with a carry bag or may simply be transported in a health club backpack. We prioritize extremely transportable choices that simply roll up and/or are available in a carrying case. 
  • Worth: To find out the worth of every set of ankle weights, we wait to take a look at the value till we consider all different key standards. Ankle weights that obtain a excessive worth rating are value the identical or lower than we’d contemplate paying for them.

Verywell Match / Jessica Juliao


Our Specialists

We consulted specialists at every stage of our analysis, testing, and reporting course of for this story. The next specialists helped us perceive what key options to search for in high-quality ankle weights and how one can use them correctly. Though we make our product alternatives independently, professional insights inform our decision-making course of.

  • Kristin McGee, CPT, licensed Pilates and yoga teacher and Verywell Match evaluate board member
  • Gabby Drucker, CPT, licensed private coach and proprietor of Drucker Health in Philadelphia
  • Anna Mae Tiry, CPT, licensed private coach and Anytime Health franchise proprietor in Wisconsin
  • Kevin Leon, CPT, private coach and power coach at Main Edge Private Trainers in New York Metropolis
  • Kollins Ezekh, health skilled of over 15 years and founding father of Constructed By God TV 

Regularly Requested Questions

Can ankle weights be used when operating or strolling?

Sporting weights in your ankles and wrists whereas strolling or operating could trigger joint stress and imbalance over time. Seek the advice of your healthcare supplier earlier than strolling or operating with ankle weights to ensure it’s protected for you to take action.

What’s one of the best ways to make use of ankle weights?

When paired with the proper type and an acceptable weight, ankle and wrist weights are efficient and protected for power coaching and higher and decrease physique exercises. Ankle weights are a staple in Pilates routines, the place you possibly can add them to strikes just like the double-leg stretch and backbone twist. If you wish to goal your abs, think about using them throughout hip lifts, alternating supermans, or the dragon flag.

How heavy ought to ankle weights be?

Ankle weights usually vary from 0.5 kilos to three kilos, though some choices could go as much as 7.5 kilos. For on a regular basis put on, 1 to three kilos may go effectively, though you could wish to enhance the burden when performing extra superior workout routines. Hearken to your physique and communicate to your licensed private coach, healthcare supplier, or bodily therapist when you aren’t positive how a lot weight is suitable. 

Why Belief Verywell Match

Megan Foley is a Verywell Match wellness and health author and knowledgeable ballet dancer. She’s keen about translating meticulous analysis into compelling content material. In her 15 years of ballet coaching earlier than becoming a member of knowledgeable New York Metropolis-based firm, she steadily used ankle weights on the barre to maximise muscle tone and total power. Now, she makes use of Gaiam Restore Ankle Weights in her weekly yoga and Pilates lessons. 

Further reporting contributed by Tori Zhou

Tori Zhou is a Verywell Match author with 5 years of expertise writing within the well being and wellness house. She enjoys staying up-to-date on the very best merchandise and prides herself on sifting via the noise to seek out choices that truly work. An avid exerciser, Tori routinely makes use of ankle weights in her exercises, particularly throughout her decrease physique power coaching routine, and is aware of what to search for in a very good set. She additionally participated within the testing course of for this text.



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