When it comes to home exercise equipment, the best ankle weights stand out as a convenient option for increasing the intensity of your workouts. These useful accessories for the lower body can spice up exercises that would otherwise be boring and make it easy to make them harder.
But there is one important thing to keep in mind: ankle weights should not be added to walking or running routines. If you see other people wearing them while pounding the pavement, you might be tempted to do the same, but we strongly advise against it.
The extra weight can throw off your natural stride and put stress on your knees, hips, and lower back that isn’t necessary. Still, ankle weights can be a helpful part of your workout routine for toning, strengthening, or rehabilitating your lower body. Also, they are versatile because they can also be used as wrist or arm weights. This makes them a good addition to your exercise equipment. Below we have mentioned the best ankle weights.
Best Ankle Weights Comparison Table
| Ankle Weights | Weight Options | Material | Closure System | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bala Bangles | 1 LB, 2 LB | Neoprene | Velcro | High |
| P Volve 3 LB Ankle Weights | 3 LB | Neoprene | Velcro | Medium |
| Adidas Performance Ankle Weights | 1 LB, 2 LB | Neoprene | Velcro | Medium |
| Sportneer Ankle Weights | 1 LB, 2 LB, 3 LB | Neoprene | Adjustable Strap | Low |
| AMBOR Ankle Weights | 1 LB, 2 LB | Oxford Fabric | Velcro | Low |
Bala Bangles
| Specification | |
|---|---|
| Weight Options | 1 lb, 2 lb, 3 lb, 5 lb, 10 lb |
| Material | Neoprene fabric |
| Closure | Hook-and-loop fastening |
| Design | Sleek, slim, and comfortable |
| Versatility | Can be worn on wrists or ankles |
| Color Options | Various |
The Bala Bangles got at least 4.5 out of 5 for all seven of the things we looked at. This made them the clear winner of our best overall spot. This option has become very popular among people who use ankle weights. It has turned a piece of fitness equipment that is usually big and bulky into something that looks more like a trendy accessory. Slip them on to work out more muscles on elliptical trainers and treadmills. During upper- and lower-body workouts, our tester was impressed by the quality and durability and said that there was nothing about the design that she would change.
This is one of only two sets we tested that are made of silicone, which is better at keeping water out than other materials and makes them less likely to slide around your ankle or wrist. Because of this design, the Bala Bangles didn’t move at all when we tested them, even when we did exercises with our skin wet. And because they are filled with recycled steel, they are less likely to leak than competitors that are filled with sand.
Pros
- Sleek and slim design for easy wearability
- Versatile usage on wrists or ankles
- Available in a variety of colors
Cons
- May feel bulky or restrictive for some individuals
- Limited weight increments compared to other options
P Volve 3 LB Ankle Weights
| Specification | |
|---|---|
| Weight | 3 lb |
| Material | Neoprene fabric |
| Closure | Adjustable strap |
| Design | Contoured for comfort |
| Versatility | Designed specifically for P Volve workouts |
| Color | Black |
P. Volve’s 3 LB Ankle Weights are a good example of a cheap product that doesn’t skimp on quality. These were about half the price of our most expensive picks, and they got a perfect 5 out of 5 for value. Almost all of their other scores were also perfect.
Our tester said that the weights didn’t move at all during any exercise, so this pick got a perfect score for both how easy it is to use and how well it fits and feels. Overall, it is one of the best ankle weights that you can buy.
Pros
- Specifically designed for P Volve workouts
- Contoured design for comfortable fit
- Adjustable strap for secure closure
- Made with durable neoprene fabric
Cons
- Limited weight option of 3 lb
- Not suitable for individuals who do not follow P Volve workouts
- May be too specialized for general fitness routines
Adidas Performance Ankle/Wrist Weights
| Specification | |
|---|---|
| Weight Options | 1 lb, 2 lb, 3 lb |
| Material | Neoprene fabric |
| Closure | Adjustable strap |
| Design | Ergonomic and comfortable |
| Versatility | Can be worn on wrists or ankles |
| Brand | Adidas |
Adidas is known for its athleisure clothes, and its ankle weights are just as comfortable and well-made. Even though these weights aren’t adjustable, they got a 5 out of 5 for both versatility and fit and comfort, which are important things to look for in any type of exercise gear or clothing, from lifting gloves to workout underwear. Our tester liked how soft the polyester was, and he was able to use this pair of weights as both wrist and ankle weights for different exercises. He also liked how easy it was to clean up.
The weight of these ankle weights comes from pouches on the outside that are filled with sand, which may make them a bit bigger. But the Velcro straps are longer than usual, which made it easy for our tester to get a good fit that didn’t slip.
Pros
- Adjustable strap for a secure and customized fit
- Ergonomic design for enhanced comfort during workouts
- Can be used on wrists or ankles for versatility
- Trusted brand with a reputation for quality
Cons
- Limited weight options compared to other brands
- Closure system may loosen during intense workouts
- Brand name may contribute to higher price point
Sportneer Ankle Weights
| Specification | |
|---|---|
| Weight Options | 1 lb, 2 lb, 3 lb, 4 lb, 5 lb |
| Material | Neoprene fabric |
| Closure | Adjustable strap |
| Design | Reinforced stitching for durability |
| Versatility | Can be worn on wrists or ankles |
| Color Options | Black, Blue, Purple |
Sportneer’s Ankle Weights are our top pick for a customizable option that won’t break the bank. They are one of four ankle weights on our list that can be changed in terms of weight. This pick has a traditional ankle weight with a Velcro closure and sand inside. It also has five weight pockets that can be taken off, which means that each 2-pound ankle weight can be adjusted by.37 pounds.
We like that the weight of these ankle weights can be changed to meet the needs of both beginners and more advanced users. However, our tester said that the mechanism for changing the weight takes a while to get used to and a few tries. Overall, it is one of the best ankle weights that you can buy.
We gave these a high score of 4.5 out of 5 for value because they were one of the best deals we found. The score would have been higher, but our tester thought that the sand-filled pouches that could be taken off didn’t look very durable. One even tore a little when she took it out and put it back in a few times.
Pros
- Suitable for both wrists and ankles
- Available in multiple color options
- Versatile for various workout routines
Cons
- May feel bulky for individuals with smaller wrists or ankles
- Limited color options compared to other brands
AMBOR Ankle Weights
| Specification | |
|---|---|
| Weight Options | 1 lb, 2 lb, 3 lb, 5 lb |
| Material | Neoprene fabric |
| Closure | Adjustable Velcro straps |
| Design | Compact and slim |
| Target Users | Fitness enthusiasts, athletes, rehabilitation patients |
| Suitable For | Walking, running, strength training, physical therapy |
Most ankle weights weigh between 1 and 4 pounds each, but Ambor’s Ankle Weights stand out because they can hold more. We tested the 5-pound set, which has a total of 10 pounds and is best for people who are more fit. Its weight comes from a filling of iron pellets, which are known to be more flexible than fillings like sand.
There are five 1-pound weight bags that can be added or taken away to change the level of difficulty. This gave them a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for versatility. And because the Velcro strap can be made longer, people of different sizes and shapes can share the weights and adjust the fit. For now, it is one of the best ankle weights that you can buy.
Pros
- Versatile weight options for progressive resistance training.
- Neoprene fabric ensures comfort and durability.
Cons
- Heavier weights may feel uncomfortable for individuals with weaker ankles.
FAQs
Ankle weights are fitness tools that are worn around the ankles to add resistance to lower body exercises and make them harder. Usually, they have straps that can be adjusted and weights that are attached to them.
Most of the time, you shouldn’t wear ankle weights all day. Ankle weights are mostly made for exercise, so you should only use them during certain workouts. Wearing ankle weights for a long time can put extra stress on your joints and muscles, which could hurt you or make you feel bad. It’s best to use ankle weights as directed by the company that made them.
People who are in good physical health and have a certain amount of strength and stability in their lower body can benefit from wearing ankle weights. Before using ankle weights, though, it’s important to talk to a doctor or fitness expert, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or concerns. They can give you advice that is tailored to your specific needs and fitness goals.
