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The Best Ankle Weights for Walking to Get Toned
Written By OvertimeReviews Team
Lunges are great, but if you really want to build strength and tone those lower legs and abdominal muscles, investing in a pair of ankle weights will make all the difference. While they might appear simple, ankle weights are wearable weights that increase the intensity of an exercise. They’re used to build muscle, strengthen the core and lower body, and improve muscular endurance. Apart from walking, ankle weights can be worn to amp up the intensity of any kind of movement, including leg lifts, squats, calf raises, and more.
But ankle weights are more than strength-building tools; they can be used to strengthen a weakened area or muscle group to prevent an injury and are often used during physical therapy or rehabilitation. Choosing an adjustable ankle weight with a customizable fit is key, allowing you to build resistance at a pace suitable to your body. Plus, many find that jogging or walking with ankle weights is one of the easiest ways for maintaining fitness. But with so many styles to choose from, picking the right pair can be difficult.
To help, we’ve put together a detailed guide that offers tips and suggestions to make buying a pair of high-quality ankle weights simple and straightforward. Let’s take a look!
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Top Ankle Weights of 2025 Reviewed in Detail
Henkelion Adjustable Ankle Weights
Best Overall
Henkelion Adjustable Ankle Weights feature a convenient hook and loop system, allowing you to completely adjust the bands around your ankle for the ideal support. Each pair offers 3 lbs of weight and the weight bags are easily separable allowing you to adjust their position with the help of Velcro and secure them in a new position.
Key features/specs
| These training weights for walking are made from a combination of highly-durable mercerized cotton and neoprene. The breathable cotton allows these weights to easily absorb sweat and moisture. Perfect for both men and women, these training cuffs are ideal for a variety of purposes including core training, aerobics, jogging, gym workouts, and other fitness activities. |
Champion Sports Ankle Weights
Most Adjustable
The Champion Sports Ankle Weights for Walking are perfect for those individuals looking for a convenient and comfortable way to increase their muscle strength and stability. The weights feature a soft, one-size-fits-all design, with an adjustable velcro closure for a more secure fit. The neoprene cover ensures friction-free comfort, so you can focus on your workout with no distractions.
Key features/specs
| These weights are great for a variety of exercises; from aerobic workouts to resistance training, these adjustable weights will make sure that you’re getting the best workout possible. You’ll also experience increased mobility and balance during your exercises. The lightweight design means that you won’t be hindered by uncomfortable bulk, allowing you to perform at your peak level. This is ideal if you’re looking to build muscle or if you’re taking part in any type of sport. With their durable construction and excellent craftsmanship, these weights will help you reach your fitness goals without compromising comfort or quality. |
Sportneer Adjustable Ankle Weights
Most Versatile
These heavy-duty sandbags for walking, yoga, and training will take your fitness to the next level. Constructed with a durable neoprene exterior, Sportneer’s Adjustable Ankle Weights feature a softly cushioned interior giving these a comfortable, smooth feel against the skin. The reinforced stitching and trim balance these weights uniformly around your ankle. These come in a pair of two 5 lb packs, one for each leg, with five sand pockets in each.
Key features/specs
| The five sand pockets are easily removable from each ankle weight allowing you to quickly adjust the weight by adding or removing one. Regardless of what you use these ankle weights for — walking, jogging, or working out — they’ll work easily and efficiently. |
BalanceFrom GoFit Adjustable Wrist and Ankle Weights
Most Moisture Wicking
BalanceForm’s GoFit ankle, wrist, arm, and leg weights come in a pair of two with a fully adjustable mechanism so you can choose your desired weight intensity, allowing you to safely build strength. Perfect for working out in the heat and sun, the inside material of these ankle weight bracelets is lined with a moisture-absorbing, breathable layer allowing sweat and moisture to dry quickly.
Key features/specs
| To secure the weights in place, simply use the oversized Velcro pad; these ankle weights will stay put no matter how strenuous the activity. Plus, the Velcro enclosure system makes it easy to add and remove weight as needed. Hugely versatile, these ankle weights can be used while jogging, walking, during aerobics, or while cross-training in the gym. Their durable neoprene exterior slows down the wear and tear making these weights a long-lasting option. |
Fragraim Adjustable Ankle Weights
Best for Beginners
The Fragraim Adjustable Ankle Weights are your do-it-all wearable weights, ideal for walking, training, toning specific muscles, and building overall fitness and strength. With five removable sandbags, these weights are easily adjustable according to your needs. With each pack weighing 0.3 lbs, you can comfortably tone and build muscle strength by gradually increasing the weight and enhancing the resistance as your strength grows.
Key features/specs
| In terms of construction, a premium quality mercerized cotton lines the inner side of these ankle weights, offering excellent flexibility and comfort while working out. Plus, this layer is soft and breathable with a unique moisture-wicking technology that quickly absorbs moisture, keeping you dry. As an added bonus, an adjustable strap with a Velcro closure ensures a snug fit. |
Gaiam Ankle Weight Set
Best for Yoga
The Gaiam Ankle Weight Set is a great addition to your fitness room. The design features adjustable straps and weights that can be customized for a superior fit. These training weights are ideal for strength and core training exercises and can be used for dance, yoga, pilates, and more. Each set features two 2.5 lb weights for each ankle, totaling 5 pounds.
Key features/specs
| What’s more, these ankle weights for walking and jogging feature a Velcro closure that allows you to adjust and perfect the fit, preventing the weights from shifting and sliding during intense movement. Plus, the high-quality reinforced stitching makes these incredibly durable. |
Buyer’s Guide: Finding Your Top Ankle Weight
Ankle weights are a great, minimal exercise product for toning your legs, building strength and endurance, and leveling up any kind of exercise routine. However, you can only reap these benefits if you choose the right kind. In this detailed guide, we offer tips and suggestions on what to look for when purchasing a top-quality ankle weight set.
What To Consider When Buying Your First Pair of Ankle Weights
Weight
First, you must decide on the appropriate weight for your body. The ideal weight will be determined by the strength and fitness level of your body and the level of activity you usually do. If you’re unsure of what weight sandbag to start with, the safest option is to start with low weight, between 1-2 pounds for each ankle.
Starting small will allow your body to adjust to the weights and avoid injury. As your body gradually builds strength, you can increase the ankle weights. Many weight wearables allow you to increase or decrease weight within a matter of seconds. You can also buy additional weights in increments of 1 lb.
Closures
A loose-fitting ankle weight will be uncomfortable and distracting while working out. Choose a weight set that offers a secure grip around the ankle. Keep in mind that the ankle weights should not slip down or up to your leg, regardless of the position you’re in. They should have a firm, comfortable grip. If they’re too tight, they could restrict blood flow; however, if they’re too loose they could slip up or down the ankle and leg and damage or chafe the skin.
To make sure the weights stay in place, choose a set of training weights that come with long straps and sturdy closures. Hook and look, Velcro, D-rings, O-rings, and buckle closures are all great features to look for.
Material
Because ankle weights are in direct contact with your skin, it’s important to choose a pair that is made out of a breathable, moisture-wicking material to allow the sweat to wick away from your skin as your body temperature heats up. Look for a pair of ankle weights that are specifically designed to be comfortable while also light and breathable enough to allow for airflow and sweat evaporation.
The top weights for walking are made out of non-irritating materials, such as neoprene, which is very flexible, lets air pass through, and absorbs moisture easily. If you have sensitive skin or prefer a soft interior, try a weight set made out of terry cloth. Materials like silicone, polyester, and vinyl are known for being durable and long-lasting.
Another important factor to consider when choosing the right material is if your ankle weights will be used indoors or outdoors. If you are planning on only wearing them while using a treadmill, then most ankle-weight materials will be okay. If you are wanting to find a pair of ankle weights to use while hiking or exercising outdoors, ensure that the material is waterproof and can be easily washed.
Comfort
Perhaps most importantly, you should always consider the weight’s comfort level. Walking with ankle weights can be difficult and tiring especially if you choose an uncomfortable, ill-fitting pair. Look for options with soft, gentle interiors (which will feel smooth against your skin), and always choose an ankle weight set that is highly customizable and adjustable. Lastly, the material should be moisture absorbing and breathable.
How Heavy Should Ankle Weights Be?
Ankle cuffs come in varying sizes, designs, and weights. You can purchase ankle weights for walking with weights ranging from less than 1 lb to up to as much as 20 lbs. The weight that will work for each person will vary depending on strength level and fitness and possibly even a person’s age and weight.
Additionally, joint health, experience, stamina, and overall health and build will also determine the right weight for you to choose when walking with ankle cuffs. As a general guideline, most users start with light weights, such as 1 or 2 lbs on each leg.
If this is your first time using ankle weights, we recommend using a 1 lb weight per leg at first so your body can adjust and build stamina gradually. Likewise, if you’ve recently experienced an injury or if you have any type of joint pain, starting with less weight will be easier on your body and allow it to gradually build strength. However, if you have already worked with high-intensity equipment and have substantial body strength, starting with more weight — such as 2 lbs per ankle — should be fine.
How Should You Use Ankle Weights?
Putting on ankle weights should be simple and quick. If you’re fastening them on to walk in, make sure you keep the weight low — roughly 1-4 lbs per leg. Putting on more weight than 5 lbs per leg will quickly put more stress on the lower body and may even alter your stride.
When walking with ankle weights on, be sure to keep your back straight. Your neck should also be in a straight, upright position with your chin held high. When walking, don’t take your steps too wide or too small as that can throw off your gait and may put added strain on your tendons and joints. As a rule of thumb, try not to talk on your phone or bend your neck downwards when walking with ankle weights as that will throw off your posture and could strain certain muscles.
Remember to increase your pace slowly while wearing ankle weights to prevent injury. You can also perform specific exercises with these weights on, such as donkey kicks, side leg lifts, and prone leg lifts.
What Are the Benefits of Using Ankle Weights?
Ankle weights are versatile and can be used for a variety of exercises (jogging, walking, strength and core exercises, yoga and pilates, and more). You can also wear them on other parts of your body such as the forearms, calves, and wrists.
When used properly, ankle weights will build your body’s better overall strength and endurance. The extra effort exerted to move with weights increases the body’s stamina and increases your pulmonary and cardiovascular health.
The visual benefit of using weights when walking is toned muscles, particularly in the legs. Doing un-weighted reps are far less effective than working out with ankle weights. With weights, your muscles will work harder, becoming stronger and more defined.
Using these weights will increase the number of calories burned as you apply more force and expend more energy to move.
Walking with ankle weights will strengthen your hamstrings, glutes, and calves due to the added resistance.
People Also Asked
Will ankle weights tone my legs?
Walking with ankle weights will add resistance to your muscles, often resulting in toned legs. They also will help you build strength, burn more energy, and increase your endurance.
Will I lose weight by walking with ankle weights?
Yes, adding weight to your lower body increases the intensity of the exercise resulting in stronger muscles and weight loss.
Can I wear ankle weights all day?
Wearing ankle weights for the whole day is not recommended as it can increase the risk of injury and unnecessary muscle strain.
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