The 5 Best Ankle Weights For Women – [2022 Reviews]

Elevate your workout with these ankle weights, we break down this year's top models

Our Editors independently research, test, and rate what we feel are the best products. We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases.

Using ankle weights, which adds gravitational resistance to your workouts, has been shown not only to help you get the most out of your workouts but also to help you in physical rehabilitation if you are recovering from an injury.

Even if you just wear them around the house you can see many benefits. This ankle weight buying guide and our list of best ankle weight sets will get you started on the path to choosing the right set for you.

The ankle weight sets featured on this list were chosen by our team for various reasons. Fit, adjustability, comfort, reliability and price point.

Let’s get started looking at the ankle weights for women shall we?

Best Ankle Weights

All Pro Adjustable Ankle WeightsDa Vinci Ajustable Ankle or Wrist WeightsHenkelion Adjustable Ankle Weights
editorschoice
Weights Available:Adjustable from 1/2 to 5 pounds1lb, 1.5lbs, 2lbs, 3lbs, 4lbs, 5lbsAdjustable from 1 to 5 pounds, per weight
Material:Contoured foamPadded neoprenePadded neoprene
Colors:Blue6 Colors4 Colors

For more of my exercise equipment recommendations, have a look through these popular Women’s Workout guide links: Ab Machines, Mini Steppers, Medicine Balls.

Quick Answer: The 5 Best Rated Ankle Weight Sets For 2022

  1. All Pro Adjustable Ankle Weights
  2. Healthy Model Life Ankle Weight Sets
  3. Henkelion 10-Lb (Pair) Adjustable Ankle Weights
  4. Da Vinci Adjustable Ankle or Wrist Weights
  5. Nordic Lifting Ankle Weights

These are our top rated ankle weight sets. Look for the features you need and want, one of these should be perfect for you!


Ankle Weight Reviews

All Pro Adjustable Ankle Weights at a Glance:


  • Adjust weight of each ankle weight to the exact weight you desire
  • Solid iron weight adjustments
  • Up to 5-Lb weight in each ankle weight
  • Sold in pairs

This pair of adjustable weight ankle weights by All Pro is perfect for those who want one set of ankle weights to last them a while – a set they can grow with.

You can adjust the amount of weight you want in each ankle weight in increments of ½ pound so they are a good choice if your looking for ankle weights for walking.

Each weight itself if made of solid iron but the adjustable ankle weight you wear is made of soft and durable fabric that is padded to protect your skin, ankle, and the Achilles tendon.

We loved that these were completely adjustable. It took no time at all to adjust the weight from that of the comfort level of one user to that of another.

They were still quite comfortable even at the max weight and are the best adjustable ankle weights.


HealthyModelLife PINC Active Ankle Weights Set

Healthy Model Life Ankle Weights at a Glance:


  • Available in 1lb, 2lbs, 5lbs & 8lbs sets
  • Extra padded for comfort
  • Double stitching for durability
  • Extra strong Velcro to help keep them in place

These ankle weights by Healthy Model Life are available in 1, 2, 5, and 8-pound sets.

Whether you are just starting out and need something light or you need something a little heavier, Healthy Model Life has the right weight for you.

Ankle weights are notorious for being uncomfortable, but these have grip that outperforms so you won’t have to constantly readjust to keep them on your ankles.

The padding is some of the best you will find so you won’t find them too tight or rough on you. These are the brand preferred by Victoria Secret Angles and it is easy to see why.

When we tried them, we found them both effective and comfortable whether it was the lighter weight or the heavier ones tried by our more seasoned fitness gurus.

We felt these were overall the best ankle weights.


Hankelion 10-pound (Pair) Adjustable Ankle Weights at a Glance:


  • Available in 4lbs, 6lbs & 10lbs total weight
  • Adjustable by 1 Lb increments
  • Reflective
  • Premium neoprene
  • Velcro closure

There are many qualities about these Henkelion Adjustable Ankle Weights that we really like.

The 10 pound set includes two 5 pound ankle weights for a total of 10 pounds. Each ankle weight has 5 weight bags for the included 1-pound weights. This set is completely adjustable whether you want just one pound on each ankle or five.

However, the first feature to stand out is that they are reflective. If you go out for jogs in the early morning hours or at night, you know how important it is to be visible.

These wrist and ankle weights can help make that easier and more convenient even though it is still no replacement for a reflective belt or vest.

The premium neoprene material is both soft and absorbent so sweat isn’t an issue. The adjustable strap makes these perfect for use by both men and women as well as kids.

Given that there were so many weight options to choose from with this brand, we had no trouble finding the right ones for our workouts without feeling under- or over-challenged. There are sets totaling 4 or 6 pounds as well if you need more adjustability with half-pound increments.

Being very comfortable for extended periods of time we felt these were best wrist and ankle weights.


Da Vinci Adjustable Ankle or Wrist Weights at a Glance:


  • They come in pairs weighing from 1 Lb to 5 Lbs
  • Color varies based on weight
  • Velcro enclosure
  • Comfortable, padded design
  • Soft, absorbent fabric lining

The Da Vinci Adjustable Ankle or Wrist Weights come in 6 different weights, each a different color. It’s easy to grab the weight you’re looking for, no matter the workout.

Made from a soft and absorbent fabric, you’ll find them comfortable whether you are going for a quick walk or have an intense workout planned.

These have a great, comfortable fit and will fit both men and women with an easy-to-adjust design. Sturdy Velcro can easily be refit to any size.

It stays put on the ankle and needs very little readjusting as you wear them, even with vigorous exercise. The weights literally hug your wrist or ankle.

These were quite comfortable and the quick and easy adjustments along with a respectable and reliable brand name definitely put this one on our list of Top 5 Ankle Weights.


Nordic Lifting Ankle Weights at a Glance:


  • Reinforced stitching
  • Industrial strength Velcro
  • Reflective trim
  • Carry bag included

The neoprene padding and the reinforced stitching on these Nordic Lifting Ankle Weights will help ensure that these last you a long while.

In fact, they even give you a 1-year warranty on them along with a carrying bag if you want to take them along with you to the gym or to yoga class.

The Nordic Lifting Weights are easy to adjust with a Velcro closure and the reflective trim adds a safety feature if you will be using these at night, similar to the SHOUNg ankle weights featured above.

These come in 1, 2, 3, or 5-pound sets so you have the option to choose the right weight to challenge yourself physically without risk of injury by adding too much weight too quickly and we felt Nordic’s were the best ankle weights for walking.

We liked these weights, in particular, because they are made to be interchangeable as both ankle weights and wrist weights.

They even have a quick-change feature allowing you to switch them from ankle to wrist with ease.

If you find yourself wanting to switch up your workout routine with both ankle and wrist weights, these might be just the right ones for you.


Ankle Weight Comparison Table

Ankle WeightsWeightsColorsMaterialRating
Healthy Model Life Ankle Weight Sets1lb, 2lb, 5lb & 8lbBlackPadded neoprene4.6 / 5/0
All Pro Adjustable Ankle WeightsAdjustable from 1 to 5 pounds, per weightBluePadded fabric4.6 / 5/0
Henkelion 10 Pound (Pair) Adjustable Ankle WeightsAdjustable from 1 to 5 pounds, per weight4 ColorsPadded neoprene4.4 / 5/0
Da Vinci Ajustable Ankle or Wrist Weights1lb, 1.5lb, 2lb, 3lb, 4lb, 5lb6 ColorsSoft cloth4.4 / 5/0
Nordic Lifting Ankle Weights1lb. 2lbs. 3lbs & 5lbsOff whitePadded neoprene4.6 / 5/0

How to Choose the Best Ankle Weights

Knowing which ankle weights are the perfect ones for you can be a little tricky. It is important to make sure you get all the features you need or want but also at a price point you can afford.

This buyers guide is meant to give you a little direction in how to choose the right ankle weights.

best ankle weight set

Materials

Ankle weights are made out of many different materials. There might even be several materials used in the same set.

Some materials wick away sweat better than others and some feel better against the skin, offering a more comfortable fit. Look for materials that have properties of both and you will have the perfect set.

Strap Closures

Not every set of ankle weights stay on the same way. Some use Velcro and just wrap around to fix to itself. Others use a hook and loop type Velcro system.

There are several others as well. The best kind of closure, however, is one that stays put so you don’t have to keep adjusting them throughout your workout routine.

Weight

If you are just starting out when using ankle weights, you don’t want to immediately go for 5-pound weights, or even 3 pounds. Start out with the lowest you can find and work your way up from there.

You don’t want to over-challenge yourself and end up with an injury but you don’t want to under-challenge yourself either, so you feel it is a waste of time.

However, with ankle weights, you most often won’t feel much of a difference while actually using them at first. The difference will be felt long after you take them off after your workout.

Type of Exercises

Not every set of ankle weights is good for cardio or running and not every set is good for Yoga or Pilates. You might have to find a set for each type of activity if you enjoy doing both rigorous activity and the more isometric exercises.

Ankle Weight Excercises

Fixed or Adjustable

Most ankle weights have a fixed weight resistance. That means if it is a 2-pound ankle weight, it weighs 2 pounds and always will.

However, there are also adjustable ankle weights that allow you to choose the amount that the ankle weight will weigh by inserting weights into sleeves around the ankle weight belt.

An example of this kind of ankle weight is the All Pro Adjustable Ankle Weight featured above.

How to Use Ankle Weights

Exercise Equipment : How to Use Ankle Weights

FAQs about Ankle Weights

Most people have questions when buying or using ankle weights for the first time. Here are some Frequently Asked Questions from users just like you.

Q: Can I use ankle weights performing everyday activities?

A: Yes! Wearing ankle weights even while doing the household chores can help to tone muscle and even burn a few extra calories even while performing the most mundane tasks. If you don’t have time to get in an actual workout that day, or even create a workout routine at all, then this is a great way to help.

Q: Can I wear ankle weights during Yoga practice?

A: If you are already practicing yoga and you want to get deeper into your stretches, or you want to see more muscle tone from your isometric poses, then ankle weights can be a great benefit. See this guide if you are interested in starting Yoga.

It is not usually suggested for yoga beginners but if you already know your way around a yoga mat, you should definitely give it a try.

Q: Will my ankle weights fit me?

A: Most ankle weights are designed as “one size fits most” and will do just that. Some are even meant to fit both men and women as well as kids.

If this is the case they will fit you even if you have really thin ankles. However, if your ankles are thicker, you may need to make sure that they are long enough to wrap completely around your ankle.

If not, you may have more weight on one side of your ankle than the other and it can result in injury.

Q: What exercises can I do with ankle weights?

A: There are endless possibilities for exercises you can do with ankle weights. To get you started, why not try:

  • Bicycle Kicks
  • Leg Raises
  • Front Lunges
  • Single-Leg Squats

If you intend on using your weights for your wrists, arm circles are great and toning your arms and shoulders.

Remember to listen to your body and if your muscles tire too quickly, start aching, or the exercises are actually painful, to stop. You may have to use lower weights to start with.

Q: Can I use ankle weights and wrist weights at the same time?

A: Yes, you can. But, if you are just starting out, it’s best that you start with one or the other until you’ve built up your strength and stamina enough to do both together.

Q: What weight should I start with?

A: You want to start out with the lowest weight possible. If you start out with too much weight, you can actually cause injury and set your fitness goals back instead of reaching your goals faster, as intended.

If you are finding it too easy using the lowest weight, then try the next highest until that is easy to use. Continue in this pattern until you ind a comfortable weight that is challenging but not too difficult.

Best Ankle Weights for Women

Tips When Using Ankle Weights

If this is the first time you will be using ankle weights, we have a few tips for you to make it easier for you to get the most out of the experience.

Tip #1: Start Slow

Always start with the lowest weight and with shorter exercise times until you know how adding weight will feel.

You may not feel the effects of the weights until after you stop the workout so don’t assume that they aren’t working just because you don’t feel it while exercising. It is easier to build up to more weight and longer exercise times slowly.

Tip #2: Learn a Great Ankle Weight Exercise Routine

The key to seeing great results is routine. Find the exercises that will give you the results you want, using ankle weights, and then give yourself a routine.

Whether you work out twice a week or every day, you want to follow your schedule as closely as possible to see results.

Tip #3: Use Ankle Weights in Water

Ankle weights provide vertical resistance. Water provides horizontal resistance. If you put the two together you are getting two different forms of resistance that work together to give you ultimate results.

Water aerobics with ankle weights can be a great addition to the exercise routine mentioned in Tip #2 above.

Tip #4: Don’t Use Them Every Time You Work Out

If you use ankle weights every time you work out, you will eventually get so used to having that weight there that your body will become adjusted to it and the weight won’t provide results anymore.

If you use them every other time you work out, or even every third time, you are much more likely to feel the results from the ankle weights.

Tip #5: Always Prepare

Just as with any other exercise, you need to take time to properly warm up before using ankle weights. This applies even if you will be using them just around the house.

You will be making your muscles work harder than they are used to and it is important to warm them up first. Do some stretches or a few jumping jacks before putting them on to prepare.

Get Started Today

Adding ankle weights to your workout or even everyday routine can help you tone your muscles and burn a few extra calories.

Why not look at the Top 5 Ankle Weight Sets we’ve featured here as well as our buying guide and choose the best set for you? You won’t regret strapping them on during your morning run or your next Pilates session at the gym. Have fun!

How We Researched

To come up with the top ankle weights, we researched a variety of sources for reviews such as Best Buy, Walmart, Target and Sears along with our own personal experience.

The authors consulted sources such as online magazines for research and reviews unbiased information.

By using Fakespot.com we tried to eliminate fake reviews and use only genuine ones.

With so many options available, the authors narrowed down the selections by using products they felt were the best value for the money.

The staff authors have a wide and varied background as fitness trainers, yoga instructors and runners. The authors have decades of experience and are eager to share their knowledge with readers.

In order to narrow down the options, we used personal experiences plus recommendations from other trainers and instructors.

Sources


I hope this guide was helpful for finding the best ankle weights to fit your needs. If you want to comment or recommend a set of weights  I didn’t include, please use my contact form to get in touch.

Notice:

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Ericka Parker

Ericka started her career as a personal trainer over 20 years ago and her goal was to help people become healthy, happy and fit. To do this she would find out their goals and provide the tools and routines to help them reach them. As her career progressed, she added yoga training to her skills to help her clients achieve mindfulness and help with clients mobility. To help more people she started bestwomensworkouts.com to help other people achieve their fitness goals with advice, tips and fitness equipment reviews.
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