ZELUS Weighted Vest Review: My Honest Experience After 2 Months of Use.
Hey there! So, we need to talk about my new workout buddy. You know how I’ve been trying to get more out of my daily walks and home workouts? I felt like I’d hit a plateau. I was putting in the time, but the results just… stalled. I needed a way to level up without having to buy a whole gym's worth of equipment.
That’s when I started seeing weighted vests everywhere. I was skeptical. Was it just a fad, or could it actually help? After a bunch of research, I decided to take the plunge and try the ZELUS Weighted Vest. I’ve been using it for a solid two months now, and I’m ready to give you my completely honest, experience-based review.
What Exactly is the ZELUS Weighted Vest?
In simple terms, it’s a sleeveless jacket with small, removable sand weights sewn into it. You can adjust the weight to suit your fitness level, starting light and adding more as you get stronger. The one I got has reflective strips (great for evening walks), is made of a breathable mesh material, and fastens with strong velcro and a buckle for security. It’s designed to distribute weight evenly across your shoulders and torso so you can add resistance to almost any activity.
How It Stacks Up: ZELUS vs. Other Options
I looked at other brands and types. Some vests use metal weights, which are denser but can be clunky and noisy. The ZELUS uses sand, which molds to your body and is silent. Other vests had complicated sizing or poor stitching reviews. The ZELUS stood out for its simplicity, the wide range of weight options (from 6lbs all the way to 30lbs), and its overall value for money. It’s not a fancy, expensive brand-name vest, but it’s incredibly well-made for the price.
Your Problem-Solving Guide
· Problem: Workouts feel too easy / Progress has stalled.
· Solution: Add 5-10% of your body weight with the vest to increase intensity instantly.
· Problem: Short on time.
· Solution: A 20-minute walk or 15-minute home workout with the vest can be as effective as a much longer session without it.
· Problem: Bored with your routine.
· Solution: The vest instantly changes the dynamic of any exercise, making it feel new and more challenging.
The Good (Pros) and The Not-So-Good (Cons)
Pros:
· Amazingly Adjustable: The ability to add or remove weight in small increments is its best feature.
· Surprisingly Comfortable: The padding on the shoulders and breathable mesh prevent chafing.
· Secure Fit: Once strapped in, it doesn’t bounce or move, even during jogging.
· Versatile: Use it for walking, running, calisthenics, or even just being more active at home.
· Great Value: It’s very affordable compared to the benefits it provides.
Cons:
· The “Sandbag” Feel: When you first handle the loose weights, they feel a bit like craft project bags. But once they’re in the vest, you don’t notice.
· Sizing Can Be Tricky: Read the size chart carefully! It needs to be snug. If in doubt, size down.
· Initial Smell: Like many synthetic products, it had a slight factory smell when new, but it aired out in a day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What weight should I start with?
A: If you’re new, I’d recommend 6lb or 8lb. It’s better to start light and progress slowly than to strain yourself.
Q: Is it good for running?
A: Yes, but build up slowly. Start with walking, then power walking, then short jogging intervals. Let your joints adapt.
Q: How do I wash it?
A: Remove ALL the weights first! You can hand-wipe the vest with a damp cloth and mild soap. Do not machine wash or submerge it.
Q: Can it help with weight loss?
A: Absolutely. By increasing the intensity of your activities, you burn more calories and build more
muscle, which boosts your metabolism.
