HEFT Steady-Load Weighted Vest

This is for the person who walks the dog every morning and wants that hour to do more for their legs, hips, and bones. It suits older adults adding gentle resistance to stay strong for daily life, and women who have read that load-bearing exercise supports bone density and want a straightforward way to try it. You do not need to be an athlete.

A common starting point is 5 to 10 per cent of your body weight. Each vest is a single fixed weight, so if you are new to wearing load, start at the lower end and give your body a couple of weeks before you step up to a heavier vest.

• 10lb / 4.5kg: a light, easy introduction, good if you are returning to exercise.
• 12lb / 5.5kg: a small step up for regular walkers.
• 16lb / 7.5kg: a solid everyday load for most walkers.
• 20lb / 9kg: for walkers who already carry load comfortably.
• 30lb / 13.5kg: for stair climbs, hills and strength work.

Our weight selection guide walks through it in detail.

The vest goes over your head and closes at the waist. Two Velcro straps let you cinch it snug across a wide range of body types, and the front buckles lock that fit in so nothing shifts mid-stride. The sides are open, so your arms swing freely and air moves through. The shoulder straps carry 2 cm of padding. It fits men and women. For measurements, see the sizing and fit guide.

The load is iron sand, sealed into panels across the front and back. Iron sand packs more weight into less space than steel plates or loose sandbags, so the vest keeps a slim profile and moulds to your torso instead of pressing into one spot. There are no loose weights to rattle or fall out, and the shoulder padding is 2 cm thick.

Wipe the shell with a damp cloth and mild soap after sweaty sessions, then let it air dry fully before you store it. Do not machine wash or tumble dry it. Press the Velcro straps closed onto themselves between walks so they stay grippy.

Try it for 30 days. Walk in it, wear it up the stairs, see how it feels on a real week. If it is not right, send it back within 30 days for a full refund. Shipping is free worldwide, with fast dispatch on every order.