The Best Ankle Weights for Men, Tested by Fitness Trainers

Though, take note, not all ankle weights are made equally. According to sports performance coach Chad Waelchli, C.S.C.S., poorly fitting ankle weights can cause discomfort. “So it’s important to select weights that fit securely and are made from quality materials that won’t irritate your skin,” says Waelchli, a trainer at St Luke’s University Health Network in Lehigh Valley, PA. “Too-heavy ankle weights can lead to injuries such as strains or sprains.” Also, MH fitness director Ebenezer Samuel, C.S.C.S, also says that ankle weights change mechanics and loading for various workouts, so the best movements for them needs to be considered.

The good news: For less than $50, you can turn your ankles into dumbbells. Ready to take your fitness routine to the next level but unsure where to start? We’ve done the research and tested some of the best-selling models. Here are our top picks for the best ankle weights for men in 2024.

What to Consider

Thinking about adding ankle weights to your workout routine? Hold on a second, don’t just go grabbing any old pair off the shelf like you’re picking out a loaf of bread. There are a few things you need to keep in mind, so you don’t end up with a pair that feels like you’re wearing cement blocks. Here’s what you should consider when choosing the perfect ankle weights.

Material

Neoprene

When it comes to ankle weights, the material is a big deal. You have neoprene, and you have your nylon. Neoprene? That stuff is like the luxury sedan of materials. It’s soft, breathable, and comfy, so you can wear it for hours without feeling like your ankles are getting chewed up. Perfect for those long workouts where you don’t want any irritation.

Nylon

Now, nylon—this is the workhorse. Durable, water-resistant, built to last. If you’re out there braving the elements, nylon’s your buddy. But let’s be honest, it’s not as cushy as neoprene. It’s like comparing a rock-solid truck to that comfy sedan. So, when you’re picking ankle weights, think about what you need. If you want to feel like you’re wrapped in a cozy blanket, go with neoprene. If you need something that can take a beating and keep going, nylon’s your guy.

Fit

The fit of ankle weights is crucial for both effectiveness and safety. They need to hug your ankles snugly to prevent slipping or shifting during exercise. Otherwise, you’ll be dealing with discomfort and potential injury. Look for weights with adjustable straps or Velcro closures, which allow you to customize the fit to your exact needs. A well-fitting pair of ankle weights will distribute weight evenly around your ankle, ensuring stability and reducing the risk of strain. But if they’re too loose or too tight? Forget about it. You’re looking at chafing, shifting weights, and a workout that’s more frustrating than effective.

Weight Options

Ankle weights come in all kinds of varieties, from light (1-2 pounds) to heavy (5-10 pounds). You should pick a weight that matches where you’re at in your fitness journey. If you’re just starting out, go with the lighter ones. Trust me, you don’t want to overload your muscles and joints and end up walking like you’ve been riding a horse all day. As you get stronger, you can gradually up the weight to keep your muscles challenged. Now, here’s the pro tip: adjustable ankle weights. These things let you add or remove weight increments (like adjustable dumbbells), so you can dial in exactly what you need. It’s like having a whole set of weights in one pair. Super versatile and a great investment for progressive resistance training. So, start light, build up, and soon you’ll be strapping on those heavyweights like it’s nothing.

Comfort

Comfort is key when selecting ankle weights, especially if you plan on using them for extended periods. Look for weights with padding or soft lining that will sit comfortably against your skin. The design should also minimize any pressure points that could cause discomfort during movement. Additionally, ensure that the closure system (whether it’s Velcro, buckle, or another type) doesn’t dig into your skin or cause irritation. You don’t want to be halfway through your workout and feeling like your ankles are being attacked by a pack of angry squirrels.

Versatility

Consider how versatile the ankle weights are and how well they fit into your existing workout routine. High-quality ankle weights should be suitable for a variety of exercises, including walking, running, strength training, and even certain types of yoga and Pilates. Some of these even double as wrist weights—talk about getting more bang for your buck. Versatility ensures that you get the most out of your investment, allowing you to enhance multiple aspects of your fitness regimen with one piece of equipment.

How We Tested

The team at Men’s Health, including fitness editors and experts like Joseph Arangio, C.S.C.S. and Chad Waelchli, C.S.C.S., have been putting the top ankle weights through their paces to bring you the best of the best.
So, how did we pick the best ankle weights? We didn’t just eyeball them. We put these bad boys through the wringer. We’re talking rigorous testing focused on quality, value, appearance, and comfort. Testers strapped them on and did all sorts of workouts—running, jumping, strength training—you name it. We watched how each pair held up under stress, checked out the comfort level, and saw how well they added that extra oomph to our routines. We scrutinized every little detail: material quality, fit, design, and durability.
Our team’s got the experience in strength training and conditioning, and we’re meticulous—like, we’ve-got-a-checklist meticulous. Our goal? To give you the most reliable and comprehensive recommendations out there. So, without further ado, here are our top picks for the best ankle weights in 2024.

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