Once a popular fitness trend in the ‘80s, ankle weights have made a big comeback lately. By adding a bit of extra weight above the ankle, these compact weights offer a convenient and versatile way to do strength training exercises anywhere, with just a small piece of portable equipment. When used properly, ankle weights can be a helpful tool for light training, injury rehabilitation, or targeting certain muscles—it’s no wonder they’re all the rage again.
We reviewed dozens of ankle weights to identify the best of the best. When narrowing it down, we considered weight, adjustability, design, comfort, and price, and we’ve included a wide range of highly-rated options in our list—some suitable for beginners, some for heavy-lifters, and some for the budget-conscious. Best of all, you can find all of these products online, so you can jumpstart your new home workout routine without even leaving your couch.
From the many ankle weights we examined, one option stood out above the rest and emerged as our favorite set of ankle weights overall: the Valeo Adjustable Ankle/Wrist Weights. Easy-to-adjust weight for increased resistance and a padded non-abrasive lining make for an easy and convenient addition to your home workout set-up.
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The 5 Top-Rated Ankle Weights
| Editor’s Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Ankle Weights Overall | Valeo Adjustable Ankle/Wrist Weights | 4.3 |
| Best Reflective Ankle Weights | Nordic Lifting Ankle/Wrist Weights | 4.5 |
| Best Budget Ankle Weights | BalanceFrom GoFit Fully Adjustable Ankle Wrist Weights | 4.3 |
| Best Ankle Weights for Beginners | REEHUT Durable Ankle/Wrist Weights | 4.5 |
| Best Heavy Ankle Weights | CAP Barbell 20-Pounds Adjustable Ankle Weights | 4.1 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Ankle Weights Overall: Valeo Adjustable Ankle/Wrist Weights
Coming in a set of two weights weighing five pounds each, these Valeo Adjustable Ankle/Wrist Weights are easily adjustable so that you can more fully control the amount of weight you want for different activities and exercises.
Here’s how they work: each weight comes with five individual sand-filled bags secured in individual pouches, so the weight bags can be added or removed depending on your preference. For these weights, that means they can weigh as little as two pounds total or as much as ten pounds total for added resistance. So, you can start light and work your way up in weight as you build strength over time, or you can adjust the weight for different exercises depending on your activity and preferences. With these adjustable weights, you have a lot of room for flexibility, all in one reasonably priced set.
Beyond allowing for a customizable weight, these Valeo ankle weights also use a metal D-ring double-strap Velcro closure system, so that you can adjust the size for a snug fit. Plus, they feature a non-abrasive, padded lining, so that you can focus on your workout rather than on distracting discomfort.
Valeo Adjustable Ankle/Wrist Weights Key Features:
- Five individual sand-filled bags in separate pouches
- 10 pounds total, five pounds each
- D-ring Velcro closure system
- Padded lining
Best Reflective Ankle Weights: Nordic Lifting Ankle/Wrist Weights
Featuring a reflective lining for added visibility, an included travel bag for storage and portability, and a large Velcro strap for easy adjustments, these Nordic Lifting Ankle/Wrist Weights are a great choice. Their mix of great features, one-year manufacturer’s warranty, and reasonable price make them an excellent overall choice you can feel confident investing in.
Earning top ratings from thousands of happy users, this set of ankle weights from Nordic Lifting uses reinforced stitching for added durability, along with neoprene padding to keep you comfortable. Some of their enthusiastic customers rave about how easy these are to use, how comfortable they are, and how useful the reflective trim is for nighttime visibility. Some users have even found the weights a helpful component in their injury recovery and strength rebuilding process.
These ankle weights weigh five pounds each, or 10 pounds total, making them a great intermediate option, though Nordic Lifting also offers one, two, and three-pound options, for those who want a lighter set. In addition to these thoughtful features, these Nordic Lifting weights are also backed by a one-year manufacturer’s warranty for defects, so you can feel more protected with your purchase.
Nordic Lifting Ankle/Wrist Weights Key Features:
- 10 pounds total, five pounds each
- Large Velcro strap
- Included travel bag
- Reflective trim
- One year manufacturer’s warranty for defects
Best Budget Ankle Weights: BalanceFrom GoFit Fully Adjustable Ankle Wrist Weights
If you’re looking to incorporate ankle weights into your exercise routine but don’t want to make too much of a dent in your wallet in the process, these BalanceFrom GoFit Fully Adjustable Ankle Wrist Weights have you covered. At just $10 for a two-pound pair of weights, these BalanceFrom ankle weights earn their spot as the best budget option on our list.
Coming in a bright pink set of two weights weighing one pound each, these ankle weights from BalanceFrom feature a neoprene exterior with reinforced stitching for added durability. To allow for a snug and comfortable fit on an ankle or wrist, these ankle weights use a large Velcro pad so you can easily adjust them for the right positioning.
In addition to its affordable price tag, this set of ankle weights from BalanceFrom is also backed by a two-year warranty and a 100% satisfaction guarantee, which make this budget-friendly pick even lower risk. While this two-pound pair comes in a bright pink color some users will love, BalanceFrom also offers a few other weight and color options to suit other preferences.
BalanceFrom GoFit Fully Adjustable Ankle Wrist Weights Key Features:
- Two pounds total, one pound each
- Bright pink color
- Two-year warranty
- Large Velcro pad
Best Ankle Weights for Beginners: REEHUT Durable Ankle/Wrist Weights
If you’re in the early stages of your fitness journey or just want a low amount of weight to incorporate into your routine, this set of REEHUT Durable Ankle/Wrist Weights makes for an excellent pick, as the best ankle weights for beginners on our list.
Coming in a one-pound pair of weights of just 0.5 pounds each, these REEHUT ankle weights are lightweight enough to be suitable for those just starting out on a fitness routine, or in need of a low-weight option to slowly build or rebuild strength. This one-pound pair measures approximately seven and a half inches long by about three inches wide and comes in a bright red color—ideal for those who want a pop of color in their new piece of gear.
Crafted with mercerized cotton, these beginner-friendly ankle weights boast a soft and breathable fabric designed to keep you comfortable while you sweat and exercise. For added reassurance, these REEHUT ankle weights are also backed by a 30-day refund or replacement policy as well as a two-year warranty, so you can try these out without much worry or stress.
REEHUT Durable Ankle/Wrist Weights Key Features:
- One pound total, 0.5 pounds each
- Adjustable strap closure
- Two-year warranty
- Mercerized cotton material
Best Heavy Ankle Weights: CAP Barbell 20-Pounds Adjustable Ankle Weights
On the other end of the spectrum stand these CAP Barbell 20-Pounds Adjustable Ankle Weights, which offer 20 pounds total and 10 pounds each—making them a great option for those searching for a heavy pair of ankle weights for added resistance.
These CAP Barbell ankle weights use a hook and loop Velcro closure that allows for easy adjustments so you can get exactly the right fit, with a “one size fits most” sizing. Because of their heavier weight, these ankle weights are also fairly large compared to the lighter options, so they may take some getting used to. At about eight inches tall and nineteen inches long, these weights are probably not ideal for exercises requiring lots of fast movements, but they make a great option for trying to build strength with a heavier weight.
If the full 20-pound set is a little too intense, these weights also feature the added benefit of using external pockets that allow you to add or remove weights. In other words, you can start small and gradually build your way up to the full 20-pound set, or adjust however you like depending on the workout.
CAP Barbell 20-Pounds Adjustable Ankle Weights Key Features:
- 20 pounds total, 10 pounds each
- Hook and loop closure system
- External pockets for adjustments
- One size fits most
Whether you’re looking to add some light resistance to your walks or you want to use heavier weights to build strength, ankle weights can make a great addition to your home workout arsenal. To further build up your highly functional home workout set-up, check out The Best Dumbbells For Home Workouts.
