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Firefighter training involves some of the most vigorous exercises. This prepares the firefighters for all the climbing, lifting, and pushing involved in the career. Additionally, firefighters have to get acquainted with carrying Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) at all times. A weighted vest is perfect for firefighter training because it can simulate SCBA while providing a more intense workout. Here, we review the best weighted vests for firefighter training.
If you are a prospective firefighter training for your Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT), a weighted vest will go a long way. You can use the vest through the woods as you prepare yourself for wildfire season, too. Since most vests are adjustable, you will always find a challenging enough vest for your level of fitness. Today, we’ll discuss the best-weighted vest for firefighter training.
Advantages of Using a Weighted Vest for Firefighter Training
Weighted vests are affordable, way cheaper than SCBA. You can get one that is as effective in training with SCBA at a fraction of the cost. Even if you have your own SCBA, using a weighted vest will keep it safe from wear and tear. The weighted vests we discuss here are of high-quality materials and construction, guaranteed to last you for years.
A weighted vest is a straightforward and affordable way to raise the toughness of your training sessions. You can easily take yours on or off when you need to. Adjustable weighted vests actually give you the option to raise your intensity in small increments. This means that, as you progress in your workout training, you can add more resistance to your exercises.
A weighted vest places stress on your body, which lets you build your endurance over time. This means that you will get better at your training and job as well. When you get to the 50 lbs, weighted vest, you’ll closely match the average load of a firefighter on duty. Some of these vests come with extras like device pockets and reflective strips that make your workout safer and more convenient.
The Best Weighted Vest for Firefighter Training Buyers’ Guide
If you have decided to switch up your firefighter training with one of the best weighted vests for firefighter training we reviewed, here are a few features to look out for:
1. Comfort and Fit
You do not want a vest that restricts you from moving or breathing as you work out. When shopping for a weighted vest, ensure it is comfortable, fits perfectly, and can adjust to move with your chest. The best vests use a breathable mesh to wick away sweat, moisture, and odors. You won’t feel stuffy in a breathable vest. A good vest should distribute weight evenly across your shoulders, front, and back. This feature ensures that you don’t develop muscle soreness due to excess pressure placed on a single area.
2. Adjustability
A weighted vest with a fixed weight is not desirable for firefighter training. In firefighter training, you simulate various scenarios with different loads on your back. Adjustable weighted vests let you vary your resistance in small increments that let you build your strength and endurance with time.
3. Quality
You’ll want a vest that lasts long and takes on intense exercise. The best vests are made of reinforced nylon od Cordura material that stands up to most weights. Good quality materials also make your exercise more comfortable while ensuring you reach all your training goals. Your vest should be resistant to wear and tear, while metal weights should be rust-resistant to ensure longevity. Vests with reasonable warranties also indicate that the manufacturers follow high standards when making them.
The Top 10 Best Weighted Vests for Firefighter Training
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Titan Adjustable Weighted Vest
If you are just getting started with firefighter training, the Titan vest is perfect for you. This vest is adjustable to six sizes between 10 and 60 pounds. This is just the right range for someone preparing to carry equipment throughout their workday. You can use the Titan adjustable weight vest for both your indoor gym exercises and when you are on the trail.
The Titan vest is priced-reasonably, allowing you to get started on your firefighter training with as little as $30. The vest is made from high-grade, wear-resistant fabric, so it is guaranteed to take on your most challenging workouts for extended periods.
These vests are made for your comfort. It comes with wide shoulder straps to evenly distribute the weights. The vest is also generously padded to eliminate muscle soreness as you work with weights. The weights have rounded corners, making them comfortable to carry, and they won’t tear into your pockets. The vest also comes with strong Velcro straps that comfortably holds all the weights in place.
Those awesome features make puts it first on our list of the best weighted vests for firefighter training.
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V-Force Weighted Vest
The V-Force Weighted Vest is designed for military workouts, which puts it second among the best weighted vests for firefighter training. This vest features a compact design. It puts much of the weight on your shoulders and chest. This makes use of the fulcrum effect to give your upper body a full, challenging workout.
This vest is made with open sides to let you cool off as you work out. It has adjustable belts that expand as you breathe, so the vest stays in place even during intense. The shoulders are fully padded, so the weight is distributed evenly along with your deltoids. These features make this vest comfortable and stable enough to handle all firefighter workouts.
This vest is durable since it is made using Cordura, a tough and flexible material. The weights are distributed evenly across your front and back, creating a perfectly balanced workout. You can easily remove and add weights. All you have to do is open the pocket flaps and slide the weights in or out.
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JBM Weighted Vest
The JBM weighted vest is a lightweight vest with a fixed weight. This vest adds 11 pounds to your workout, which is enough to build muscle strength and stamina. It comes at an entry-level price point, too, and will make an excellent addition to your firefighter workout.
This vest is built with soft neoprene material that is weighted with sand. This makes it one of the most comfortable weighted vests we’ve reviewed. The shoulder straps are long and narrow to give you access to your full range of motion as you jog, run, or work out in your gym.
This stylish vest comes with a mesh pocket where you can store your snacks, water bottles, phone, keys, and other personal items. The vest also has reflective strips that make you visible in low-light conditions. This means you can work out safely in the early mornings and evenings. This vest comes with adjustable side buckles that make it fit for individuals of any size.
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RUNFast 12lbs-140lbs Adjustable Weighted Vest
The RUNFast weighted vest has a weight capacity of 140 lbs. You are offering great resistance to your workout. This puts it among the best weighted vests for firefighter training. The RUNFast vest is a one-size-fits-most vest that can be used by various individuals for firefighter training. You can adjust the weights to match the intensity required by your level of training.
This vest is extremely easy to use. You fix it on the body with a Velcro valve attached to the front of your vest. The weights are evenly distributed along your front and back to give you an even workout. This vest is made with the highest quality material, with double seams, strong straps, and secure weight pockets that make it strong and durable.
This vest includes a pocket that can store your phone and other training accessories. If long-distance running is part of your fireman’s training routine, then you can store water in the generous pocket located along the stomach. This vest offers a great combination of affordability and high-quality construction, making it perfect for your fireman training.
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Hyperwear Hyper Vest PRO Unisex Adjustable Weighted Vest
This is a lightweight vest with adjustable weights designed to give you a comfortable workout. The vest features a thin profile that allows you to practice fireman drills with a complete range of motion. The fabric stretches to fit individuals of any size. It is made from Tyvek Lycra Nylon material that makes it strong enough to hold the weights for extended time periods.
This vest is made of a moisture-wicking, odor-resistant material that keeps your workouts comfortable. You get a choice of four sizing options, so you can find one that fits your workout needs. It hugs the chest but expands horizontally to accommodate your rising and falling chest. This makes the Hyperwear Hyper Vest very breathable.
This vest comes in a unisex design that fits both genders perfectly. This makes the Hyperwear Hyper Vest great for fire departments as anyone can use them. It is heavy enough to offer the perfect resistance as you prepare for your CPAT or Red Card Test.
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miR Women’s Weighted Vest 10lbs – 50lbs
This vest is designed to deliver high resistance for women. A big concern is that most vests designed for women are of small weight capacities, and miR undid that with the women’s weighted vest. It features a compact design that fits snugly against the female form without stressing the stomach.
This vest is made of heavy-duty fabric, so it can withstand tough firefighter exercises and drills. It also features high-quality construction that makes it breathable, durable, and comfortable. It features wide side panels that allow for free movement during your workouts. The large allowance also fits women with large busts.
This is also a one-size-fits-all vest fitted with Velcro straps and D-ring that can be adjusted to fit most women. This vest is made with 1200D nylon with double padded and contoured shoulders. This makes it very comfortable for the female figure. The interior is lined with mesh to make it breathable. A surefire amongst the best weighted vests for firefighter training.
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ZFOsports Weighted Vest
This vest’s construction lets it hold snugly to your body even under intense workout conditions. It comes with adjustable Velcro straps and a belt that lets you find the perfect fit for individuals of any size. It is also designed to be unisex, making it perfect for a firefighter department’s workout.
While it fits snugly to your body, it features an open design that gives you maximum mobility and breathability as you exercise. It is also made of superior-quality materials that can take in intense workouts with very little wear and tear. It features a rugged, solid look which most users find appealing.
This vest is also extremely easy to use. You drape it over your shoulders, secure the Velcro belt and straps, and you’re ready to go. It comes with high-quality weight pockets that let you easily slide the weights in and out. These pockets can also function as devices and water bottle holders when you don’t use them to carry your weights.
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Cap Barbell Adjustable Weighted Vest
This vest comes with anchor hooks that facilitate parachute training. This means you can simulate a load of firefighting equipment and SCBA on your back as you work out. This incredible construction makes the CAP Barbell a top best-weighted vest for firefighter training.
This vest features an incredibly versatile and masterful construction to take in your most intense exercises. The neoprene shoulder pads are wide enough for proper load balancing. The vest is tough enough to stand a wide range of weights: between 40 and 150 pounds. This makes working out with the CAP Barbell very flexible.
You can reduce or increase the weight in 2.5-pound increments. These weights are sandbags that you easily slide into their pockets for a varied workout. This flexibility makes it perfect for your firefighter workouts that require a wide range of resistance levels depending on the workout.
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Hyperwear Hyper Vest Elite Adjustable Weighted Exercise Vest
This vest adds up to 25 pounds to your workout, making it the perfect vest for beginner firefighters. This makes your firefighter training more challenging, potentially driving your endurance and muscle strength. This vest features a low profile design that doesn’t restrict your motions, making it perfect for all workouts.
This vest is designed with a series of pockets along its front and back for weight variation. The weights are 2.25-ounce high-density steel bars that you put on or off depending on your training needs. This system is simple and effective, making it a favorite for workout training.
This vest is lined with reflective strips along the front and back. This means you can work out with the vest in the late evenings and early mornings safely since you are more visible. The vest is made with Cordura material that is tough and durable. The vest comes with workout tips that let you get started on an added-resistance firefighter workout as soon as you open the package.
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CROSS101 Weighted Vest
The Cross101 vest features a camouflage finish that gives it a cool, unobtrusive look. Cross101’s aesthetics and quality makes it the ideal vest for firefighter training. This vest is available in four weight classes: from 20 to 80 lbs. You can find a vest that fits your exercise needs at whatever level of fitness.
You can easily adjust the weight of this vest using metal bars that easily slip into its pockets. You can easily work your way up the levels of fitness required in firefighter training. The Cross101 vest is moisture-wicking and odor resistant for a perfect and comfortable workout.
This vest is designed for mobility. You use Velcro straps to secure it to your body, giving you a comfortable fit. It is also made with high-grade, lightweight cloth fabric that is soft and breathable. You will always enjoy working out with the Cross101 weighted vest.
Parting Shot
A weighted vest will be a perfect addition to firefighter training. Besides varying the resistance of your exercise, these vests simulate real-world firefighting scenarios. These vests represent SCBA and other firefighting equipment, making them ideal for fire drills and other training forms. Check our buyer’s guide to know what qualities you should look for in an excellent weighted vest. The list above contains some of the highest performing vests that we feel will make you firefighter training more effective.
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Last update on 2023-05-10 at 11:18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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