HEFT Weighted Vest: Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about fit, weight, the fill, care, and getting your vest, answered plainly. If your question is not here, our contact page has the best way to reach us.
How does the vest fit, and will one size suit me?
The vest goes on over your head and is then pulled snug with dual Velcro waist straps and a front buckle closure. The sides are open, so it hangs from the shoulders and cinches at the waist rather than wrapping tight around your ribs. That is why a single size covers a wide range of bodies. Our sizing and fit guide shows how to measure and set the straps.
How much weight should I start with?
Aim for roughly 5 to 10 per cent of your body weight, and start at the lower end if you are new to it. For most first-time wearers that means the 10lb / 4.5kg or 12lb / 5.5kg setting. The weight selection guide maps each weight to a walker profile and body-weight range.
What weights does the vest come in?
The vest is adjustable across 4.5, 5.5, 7.5, 9, and 30lb / 13.5kg. Because the fill is modular, you set the load for a given day and add to it as you get stronger, so one vest carries you the whole way.
What is inside the vest, and why iron sand?
The weight comes from iron-sand fill held in sealed panels, not loose steel plates. The fine sand settles into a slim panel that moulds to your torso and stays close to your centre of mass. That keeps the load flat and quiet instead of swinging, which is what makes it comfortable over a long walk.
Why are the sides open?
The open-side design keeps your arms completely free, so your natural arm swing is untouched and air moves across your ribs on a warm day. It also stops the vest pinching under the arms, and it is part of why one size fits so many body types.
Will the vest bounce or shift while I move?
Not when it is set snug. The slim panels hold the weight flat against your torso, and the waist straps plus front buckle lock the fit in place. Cinch the straps first so the weight rests on your hips and core, then clip the buckle. A snug vest sits still through walking, stairs, and bodyweight training.
How do I clean and care for it?
Spot clean the outer shell with mild soap and water, then let it air dry. Do not machine wash it and do not tumble dry it. The iron-sand fill stays sealed in its panels, so you are only ever cleaning the outer fabric. Between uses, store it somewhere dry so the shell and straps stay in good shape.
Can a weighted vest help with bone density?
Research supports weight-bearing and resistance exercise for bone health, and a vest adds load to weight-bearing movement such as walking. It is not a medical treatment, and no single product builds bone on its own; the benefit comes from consistent, gradually harder exercise over time. If you have osteoporosis, low bone density, or another medical condition, check with your doctor before adding weight. The weighted vest for bone density page covers this in more detail.
Do you ship across Australia, and how long does it take?
Yes. We ship across Australia, and shipping is free on orders over $99. Orders are typically delivered in 2 to 6 business days once they leave our warehouse. When your order ships, we email a tracking link so you can follow it; see the track your order page for how that works.
What is your returns policy?
Every vest comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Try it on your own walks, and if it is not right for you, return it within 30 days for a refund. If you need a hand starting a return, reach out through the contact page.
Can I wear it for more than just walking?
Yes. The close, steady fit holds up for stairs, running, and bodyweight training such as squats and lunges as well as walking. The same vest handles a gentle daily loop and a harder session, so you are not buying separate gear for each.
Is the vest suitable for older adults?
For many active older adults it is a reasonable way to add gentle load to a daily walk, starting at the lightest setting and shorter routes. Balance, joints, and existing conditions matter, so check with your doctor first. The weighted vest for seniors page walks through using it sensibly at an older age.