I always look for simple, inexpensive ways to improve my fitness routine. I’ve been inspired by Instagram influencers adding wrist and ankle weights to their Pilates and other exercises. It got me thinking—could ankle weights improve my workouts or enhance my fitness when I work from home?
With so many options available, choosing the right ankle weights feels overwhelming. To help us decide, here are the key factors we should consider consider:
- Weight Range: Light weights for beginners or heavier ones for advanced users.
- Comfort and Fit: Look for adjustable straps, padding, secure fastening, and the correct shape for the activity.Â
- Material: Opt for breathable fabric, sweat resistance, and durability.
- Purpose: Choose based on your activities—walking, Pilates, strength training, or rehab.
- Price: There’s something for every budget.
After much research, here are my top ankle weights for specific needs.Â
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The Best Ankle Weights for Walking
I recommend choosing a less bulky, soft material pair when choosing ankle weights for walking or running. I recommend selecting sand-filled ankle weights that stay in place, so a secure strap is essential. I would not recommend choosing silicon or any other challenging material ankle weights that might touch when in motion. Remember that you might want to wear them for long, so they must be comfortable. I suggest starting with lighter weights and building to heavier ankle weights with time.Â
GAIAM Ankle Weights
Weight: A pair of 2.5lb (5lb set) or 5lb (10lb set)Â
Materials: Shell: Neoprene, Polyester, Mesh. Fill: Sand
Pros
- Very comfortable for walking or running
- Quick to put onÂ
ConsÂ
- Not suitable for slim ankles
- might stain clothing if wet
- can fall of with vigorous movement
Nordic Lifting Store Ankle/Wrist WeightsÂ
Weight: 1 LB, 2LB, 3LB, 5LB
Materials: Shell: Neoprene, Polyester, Mesh. Fill: Sand
Pros
- Water resistant
- Have a reflective strip, so good for walking/jogging at night
ConsÂ
- Neoprene padding can feel sweatyÂ
The Best Ankle Weights for Pilates or Yoga
When choosing suitable ankle weights for Pilates and Yoga you need to keep in mind the weight and also shape to make sure the weights are not in the way of performing certain poses. I would recommend silicon ankle weights that can be adjusted and moved around easily.Â
BECOJADDE Ankle/Wrist WeightsÂ
Weight: 2LB or 4LB
Materials: silicone and stainless steel, velcroÂ
Pros
- Adjustable and comfortable
- Beautiful and unique designÂ
- Multiple colour design (Purple, green, pink and grey)
- can be used as writ and ankle weights
ConsÂ
- Pricey for 4 LBÂ
The Best Adjustable Ankle Weights
This category is for those who would want to share their ankle weights or focus on progressive training.Â
Sportneer Adjustable Ankle Weights
Weight: 1 Pair 1 2 3 4 6 7 8 10 lbsÂ
Materials: neoprene, lycra, iron sand, stainless steel ring
Pros
- suitable for wider ankles
- very versatile
ConsÂ
- quite bulky Â
Sportneer Adjustable Ankle Weights
Weight: 1 2 3 4 6 7 8 10 12 15 20 lbs ( separate pairs )
Materials: merchandised cotton, stainless steel ring
Pros
- great for petite ankles
- very secure with a long velcro strip Â
ConsÂ
- need to buy multiple for progressive trainingÂ
The Best Heaviest Ankle Weights
If you are a fitness pro looking to enhance your workout even more with ankle weights, 1 LB will not cut it for you. You need weight capacity (10+ lbs) and very secure fit for intense strength training.Â
DMI Adjustable Length Black Wrist and Ankle Weights
Weight: from 15LB to 20LB in one pairÂ
Materials: ‎Nylon, velcro, stainless steel ring, sandbags
Pros
- affordableÂ
- can remove and add weights Â
- very secure
ConsÂ
- bulky
LEKÄRO Wrist Ankle Weights, Adjustable Ankle Weights
Weight: up to 11LB or up to 22 LB per pairÂ
Materials:Â mercerized cotton, nylon, velcro, metal
Pros
- great for strength training
- very secure and versatile
- good qualityÂ
ConsÂ
- not esthetically pleasingÂ
- expensiveÂ
The Best Budget-Friendly Option
NEALFIT Wrist Ankle Weights
Weight: 0.5 , 1 , 1.5 , 2 , 3, 5 per each pair
Materials:Â mercerized cotton, neoprene, velcro, metal
Although you get what you pay for, these ankle weights are the best in a low-budget category. They are comfortable to wear and have a wider velcro strap for more comfort than other ankle weights in this category. Although some people say they do not last long, many praise them for their comfort and good value.Â
Pros
- good value for the price
ConsÂ
- not very durable
The Best Premium Ankle Weights Options
Bala Bangles
Weight: 1, 2, or 3 LB per pair
Materials:Â mercerized cotton, neoprene, velcro, metal
Bala Bangles are more a fitness fashion statement than a workout gear. They will grab attention in your Pilates class and match your Alo yoga set very well.Â
To save money, I would suggest getting the heavier ones and removing some bars.Â
Pros
- elegant with multiple pastel colors
- comfortable
- adjustable weightÂ
ConsÂ
- expensive
- only go up to 3LB per pair
If you are looking for a sustainable Yoga mat, you can check The Best Yoga Mats for Durability and Sustainability 2025
F A Q about Ankle weightsÂ
How do I clean my ankle weights?
- Check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific material cleaning.Â
- Mix a small amount of mild detergent with warm water.
- Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe the ankle weights’ surface.Â
- Avoid soaking the weights entirely, especially if they contain sand, metal, or other non-waterproof fillings.
- Clean your ankle weights after each use if they get sweaty.
- Store them in a dry, cool place to prevent mold or mildew growth.
What ankle weights should you get?
Weight: For activities like walking, running, yoga, or Pilates, start with lighter weights (1-2 pounds) to avoid strain. Adjustable weights up to 5 pounds per ankle can be appropriate for strength training or higher-intensity workouts. If you are experiences in weight lifting and have strong ankle muscles, you can go with higher weights.Â
Fit and Comfort: Ensure the weights have adjustable straps from comfortable materials to prevent chafing during workouts.
Adjustability: Adjustable ankle weights allow you to increase or decrease resistance as needed.
Always consult a fitness professional to determine the appropriate weight and usage for your workout needs.Â
Do you have a pair or a few ankle weights? Do you like using them and seeing the benefits? Comment below.
Please Note: This post is for informational purposes only and is based on research. It’s not medical advice. It’s always best to consult a healthcare professional with health concerns. Enjoy reading!
Silvija Meilunaite PN1-NC, is a certified nutrition coach and a writer in the nutrition and self-improvement field with a passion for exploring science-based knowledge focusing on holistic health and plant-based nutrition.
Featured in the Wellness on Time magazine.
