<p>Though, take note, not all ankle weights are made equally. According to sports performance coach <a href=”https://www.trainbe.com/trainer-highlight” target=”_blank”>Chad Waelchli</a>, C.S.C.S., poorly fitting ankle weights can cause discomfort. “So it’s important to select weights that fit securely and are made from quality materials that won’t irritate your skin,” says Waelchli, a trainer at <a href=”https://www.slhn.org/” target=”_blank”>St Luke’s University Health Network</a> in Lehigh Valley, PA. “Too-heavy ankle weights can lead to injuries such as strains or sprains.” Also, <em>MH</em> fitness director <a href=”https://www.menshealth.com/author/217286/ebenezer-samuel/” target=”_blank”>Ebenezer Samuel</a>, C.S.C.S, also says that ankle weights change mechanics and loading for various workouts, so the best movements for them needs to be considered.<br></p><p>The good news: For less than $50, you can turn your ankles into <a href=”https://www.menshealth.com/technology-gear/g41560310/best-dumbbells/” target=”_blank”>dumbbells</a>. Ready to take your fitness routine to the next level but unsure where to start? We’ve done the research and tested some of the best-selling models. Here are our top picks for the best ankle weights for men in 2024.</p><h2 class=”body-h2″>What to Consider</h2><p>Thinking about adding ankle weights to your workout routine? Hold on a second, don’t just go grabbing any old pair off the shelf like you’re picking out a loaf of bread. There are a few things you need to keep in mind, so you don’t end up with a pair that feels like you’re wearing cement blocks. Here’s what you should consider when choosing the perfect ankle weights.</p><h3 class=”body-h3″><strong>Material</strong></h3><h4>Neoprene </h4><p>When it comes to ankle weights, the material is a big deal. You have neoprene, and you have your nylon. Neoprene? That stuff is like the luxury sedan of materials. It’s soft, breathable, and comfy, so you can wear it for hours without feeling like your ankles are getting chewed up. Perfect for those long workouts where you don’t want any irritation. </p><h4>Nylon </h4><p>Now, nylon—this is the workhorse. Durable, water-resistant, built to last. If you’re out there braving the elements, nylon’s your buddy. But let’s be honest, it’s not as cushy as neoprene. It’s like comparing a rock-solid truck to that comfy sedan. So, when you’re picking ankle weights, think about what you need. If you want to feel like you’re wrapped in a cozy blanket, go with neoprene. If you need something that can take a beating and keep going, nylon’s your guy. </p><h3 class=”body-h3″> <strong>Fit</strong></h3><p>The fit of ankle weights is crucial for both effectiveness and safety. They need to hug your ankles snugly to prevent slipping or shifting during exercise. Otherwise, you’ll be dealing with discomfort and potential injury. Look for weights with adjustable straps or Velcro closures, which allow you to customize the fit to your exact needs. A well-fitting pair of ankle weights will distribute weight evenly around your ankle, ensuring stability and reducing the risk of strain. But if they’re too loose or too tight? Forget about it. You’re looking at chafing, shifting weights, and a workout that’s more frustrating than effective. </p><h3 class=”body-h3″> <strong>Weight Options </strong></h3><p>Ankle weights come in all kinds of varieties, from light (1-2 pounds) to heavy (5-10 pounds). You should pick a weight that matches where you’re at in your fitness journey. If you’re just starting out, go with the lighter ones. Trust me, you don’t want to overload your muscles and joints and end up walking like you’ve been riding a horse all day. As you get stronger, you can gradually up the weight to keep your muscles challenged. Now, here’s the pro tip: adjustable ankle weights. These things let you add or remove weight increments (like <a href=”https://www.menshealth.com/fitness/g43776124/the-best-adjustable-dumbbells/” target=”_blank”>adjustable dumbbells</a>), so you can dial in exactly what you need. It’s like having a whole set of weights in one pair. Super versatile and a great investment for progressive resistance training. So, start light, build up, and soon you’ll be strapping on those heavyweights like it’s nothing. </p><h3 class=”body-h3″> <strong>Comfort </strong></h3><p>Comfort is key when selecting ankle weights, especially if you plan on using them for extended periods. Look for weights with padding or soft lining that will sit comfortably against your skin. The design should also minimize any pressure points that could cause discomfort during movement. Additionally, ensure that the closure system (whether it’s Velcro, buckle, or another type) doesn’t dig into your skin or cause irritation. You don’t want to be halfway through your workout and feeling like your ankles are being attacked by a pack of angry squirrels. </p><h3 class=”body-h3″> <strong>V</strong><strong>ersatility </strong></h3><p>Consider how versatile the ankle weights are and how well they fit into your existing workout routine. High-quality ankle weights should be suitable for a variety of exercises, including walking, running, strength training, and even certain types of <a href=”https://www.menshealth.com/fitness/a37321056/yoga-poses-for-beginners/” target=”_blank”>yoga</a> and <a href=”https://www.menshealth.com/fitness/a32768189/pilates-men-at-home/” target=”_blank”>Pilates</a>. Some of these even double as wrist weights—talk about getting more bang for your buck. Versatility ensures that you get the most out of your investment, allowing you to enhance multiple aspects of your fitness regimen with one piece of equipment.</p><h2 class=”body-h2″><strong>How We Tested </strong></h2><p class=”body-text”>The team at <em>Men’s Health</em>, including fitness editors and experts like Joseph Arangio, C.S.C.S. and Chad Waelchli, C.S.C.S., have been putting the top ankle weights through their paces to bring you the best of the best.<br> <br>So, how did we pick the best ankle weights? We didn’t just eyeball them. We put these bad boys through the wringer. We’re talking rigorous testing focused on quality, value, appearance, and comfort. Testers strapped them on and did all sorts of workouts—running, jumping, strength training—you name it. We watched how each pair held up under stress, checked out the comfort level, and saw how well they added that extra oomph to our routines. We scrutinized every little detail: material quality, fit, design, and durability.<br> <br>Our team’s got the experience in strength training and conditioning, and we’re meticulous—like, we’ve-got-a-checklist meticulous. Our goal? To give you the most reliable and comprehensive recommendations out there. So, without further ado, here are our top picks for the best ankle weights in 2024.<br></p>”/>
The SPRI Adjustable Ankle Weights offer a versatile and comfortable option for anyone looking to add resistance to their workouts. With their adjustable weight system, you can start light and gradually increase the load as you get stronger. It’s like having a personal trainer that pushes you harder the fitter you become. The comfortable neoprene material ensures that they fit snugly without causing irritation, even during longer workouts.
What really sets the SPRI Adjustable Ankle Weights apart is their versatility. Each weight comes with removable packs, so you can easily increase or decrease the weight as needed. Sure, they’re a bit bulkier compared to non-adjustable options, but that’s the trade-off for being able to customize your workout. This feature makes them perfect for progressive training, allowing you to gradually build strength and endurance. The durable construction ensures that these weights can withstand intense workouts without falling apart, providing a long-lasting addition to your fitness gear.
One drawback is that the Velcro straps, while secure, may start to wear out after extensive use. However, with proper care, this issue can be minimized, ensuring that the weights remain a reliable part of your workout routine.
| Material | Neoprene and iron |
|---|---|
| Weights | 5 – 20 lbs. total |
| Weight Type | Adjustable |
| Closure Type | Hook and loop |
Pros
- Durable construction
- Easy to adjust weight
- Affordable price for the quality
Cons
- Bulkier than some higher-end models
Looking for bomb-proof ankle weights that won’t break the bank? The Body-Solid Tools Ankle Weights are a solid choice. (See what I did there?) These weights combine comfort and durability, making them ideal for those on a budget who still want quality gear. The material is soft and minimizes chafing, so you can wear them for extended periods without discomfort.
These weights are well-constructed, designed to last through many workouts. Adjusting the weight is straightforward with removable 1 lb. weights, allowing you to tailor the resistance to your needs easily. They come in pairs of up to 5 lb. each or 10 lb. each, making them versatile for various fitness levels and activities. While they might be a bit bulkier compared to some other options, they’re great for adding extra resistance to your lower-body strength training exercises.
The main drawback? The nylon construction can be rough on your shins, so you’ll need to jack up your socks to prevent chafing if you wear them for walks. Also, their bulkier design can be a bit cumbersome for more dynamic movements, like running. However, for most general fitness activities, these ankle weights perform admirably and offer a reliable, sturdy option.
| Material | Nylon |
|---|---|
| Weights | Enough 1 lb. inserts to max out at two 10-lb. weights |
| Weight Type | Removable 1 lb. weights to adjust increments |
| Closure Type | Hook and loop |
These ankle weights come with an adjustable weight system so you can start light and ramp it up as you get stronger. Think of it as adding layers to a cake—start small and build it up.
The weights are padded, so they’re comfy too. You won’t be thinking, “Why did I strap these torture devices to my legs?” The Velcro straps are solid. Once they’re on, they’re not going anywhere. You can do your whole workout without them sliding around.
They’re perfect for everything—walking, running, strength training. And get this: The adjustable straps mean they fit everyone. They’ve got these pockets where you can add the 1-pound “weight bars” gradually. You know what that means? You can up your game, bit by bit, without overdoing it. The weight-bar pockets are made of heavy canvas with durable rubber-capped closures. It’s like these weights are saying, “We’re here to stay.”
By adding even a small amount of weight, your muscles must exert more effort to lift and balance. Plus, they come with a heavy-duty edge trim and a secure nylon strap with a hook and loop closure. It’s like they thought of everything.
| Material | Nylon and canvas |
|---|---|
| Weights | Available in 10 or 20 lb. pairs |
| Weight Type | Removable 1 lb. weights to adjust increments |
| Closure Type | Hook and loop |
If you want a little extra workout challenge without feeling like you’re wearing leg irons, these ankle weights are the ones for you. Made from neoprene—yeah, that’s the same stuff they make wetsuits out of—so they’re comfy, they fit well, and they’re easy on your skin. You’re not going to be fidgeting with these every two seconds.
The design is sleek and modern and they’re super easy to put on and take off, thanks to the simple Velcro straps that secure them in place. You can wear them while you walk, run, or even during yoga sessions to up the intensity without overloading your muscles.
Now, the downside. They come in at a fixed 2.5 pounds each. That means if you’re looking to gradually increase your resistance, these might not be the best option. However, for a steady, manageable increase in workout intensity, they’re perfect. And let’s not forget, they’re very affordable, so you’re getting good value for your money.
Whether you’re a fitness newbie or someone just looking to add a bit of resistance to your everyday activities, the GAIAM Ankle Weights are a solid choice. They strike a good balance between comfort and functionality, making them a go-to for anyone looking to boost their workouts without going overboard.
| Material | Neoprene |
|---|---|
| Weights | 2.5 lbs. per weight |
| Weight Type | Fixed |
| Closure Type | Hook and loop |
Cons
- Can be cumbersome for high-intensity workouts
These aren’t your average weights that you throw on and hope for the best. No, these are adjustable, meaning you can add or remove weights to fit your workout needs perfectly. Each weight comes with five removable sandbags, each weighing 1 lb. This means each individual ankle weight can be adjusted from 1 to 5 lbs, and the pair can be adjusted from 2 to 10 lbs. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned pro, these weights grow with you. It’s like having a miniature gym wrapped around your ankles.
The Sportneer Adjustable Ankle Weights are built with high-quality, durable materials, including a neoprene exterior, reinforced stitching, and a sturdy outer trim. Inside, they feature moisture-absorbing, soft, and breathable material for ultimate comfort. When you hold these in your hands, you can feel their softness and quality. The specially designed D-ring withstands pulling and holds the strap in place, preventing the ankle weights from slipping down easily, no matter how much you move.
The long Velcro straps, about 12.5 inches, ensure a comfortable and secure fit for ankle sizes ranging from 7.5 to 12.5 inches in circumference. These weights are versatile—perfect for everything from walking and jogging to leg lifts, strength training, and even physical therapy. They help add more resistance to your daily workout, enhancing strength, muscle rehabilitation, balance, and overall fitness.
Yes, they’re a bit bulkier than some other options, but that’s the trade-off for their adjustable nature. You might find them a bit cumbersome for high-intensity workouts, but for most exercises, they’re great.
| Material | Neoprene |
|---|---|
| Weights | Available in 2 or 10 lb. pairs |
| Weight Type | Removable 1 lb. sandbag weights to adjust increments |
| Closure Type | Hook and loop |
Meet the Expert
- Chad Waelchli, C.S.C.S., a sports-performance coach at St Luke’s University Health Network in Lehigh Valley, PA.
Why Trust Us
At Men’s Health, we don’t mess around when it comes to giving you reliable product recommendations. We know you deserve the best, so we go all out with our research and testing before we tell you what’s worth your time and money.
Our writers and editors? They’re not just any random folks. They’re experts who really know their stuff. We collaborate with top-notch professionals to make sure our recommendations are spot-on. These guys use their informed opinions to pick products, ensuring our content is top quality.
Now, here’s the kicker: Our product recommendations are purely editorial. Yes, sometimes we get free products to test; however, we only suggest the ones that truly impress us. No retailer or PR person tells us what to say. We keep it real, so you can trust that our endorsements are reliable and unbiased. That’s how we roll at Men’s Health.
Read more: Learn About How We Test Products
Should I Invest in Ankle Weights?
Ankle weights can take your workout from “meh” to “wow,” boosting your strength, and improving your overall fitness level—all of which is why our guy, Waelchli, can’t stop talking about them. He’s got a whole list of reasons why quality ankle weights are a must, from cranking up the intensity of your exercises to improving your balance.
“If you’re just dipping your toes into the fitness pool, a good pair of ankle weights can really amp up your workouts,” he says. Quality weights add that extra resistance you need to challenge your muscles and make your training more effective.” They also help you progress core moves, like hanging knee raises, without hitting that dreaded plateau.
In the world of fitness, a little investment goes a long way. If you don’t have the budget for a whole gym in your house, a pair of ankle weights are an affordable way to supercharge your lower-body workouts, making sure every move counts
By adding ankle weights to your routine, you’re intensifying everything—walking, running, strength training, you name it. Once you try them, you’ll never look back. Except to explain that these things aren’t ankle monitors, and you are not on parole.
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