If you're on the hunt for new (and inexpensive) ways to enhance your workout routine, don't sleep on ankle weights. There are a lot of exercise accessories out there, but none quite measure up to a weighted cuff. Ankle weights add resistance to your strength training [1], which can improve balance and help tone and build muscle in your hamstrings, quads, and glutes. Since they're so easy to just put on, you can even wear them around the house or on neighbourhood walks. Our favourite thing about incorporating ankle weights? It gets us *that* much closer to having legs like Carrie Underwood [2]. We've searched high and low for the most premium yet affordable ankle weights on the market. Shop our favourites, and get ready to feel the burn!
Tone it Up Ankle Weights
Tone it Up Ankle Weights [3] ($22) are a crowd favourite and average a perfect five-star rating among their customers. Collectively, the weights offer five pounds of resistance and are filled with sand for a snug, secure fit.
Sprint Aquatics Ankle Weights
Calling all swimmers and fans of water aerobics! Sprint Aquatics Ankle Weights [4] ($30) range from three to 10 pounds and are waterproof. Customers are raving about these ankle weights sharing that they "dry fast," "have a secure fit," and can also be worn "with water shoes." One happy customer noted their pair is still good as new after using them for over two years!
Sportneer Adjustable Ankle Weights
Not sure which weight size is best for you? Sportneer Adjustable Ankle Weights [5] ($30) give you the option to change your mind as many times as you want. Wear one pound weights today and five pound weights tomorrow. All you have to do is take out the easily removable sand pocket.
CAP Barbell Adjustable Ankle Weights
Usually, ankle weights cap off at six pounds per cuff, but not CAP Barbell Adjustable Ankle Weights [6] ($25), which can reach up to 10 pounds per cuff. These are perfect for people looking to slowly amp up their workouts. Because the weight is adjustable, you can ease your way up the totem pole, or switch between weights depending on the workout.
Smartmak Ankle Ring Weights
Smartmak Ankle Ring Weights [7] ($44) aren't your typical ankle weights. For starters, they're adjustable rings made so they don't velcro or buckle into place. They're also sweat, odour, and waterproof, making them an ideal choice for water workouts.
Fragraim Ankle Weights
Fragraim Ankle Weights [8] ($25) are great for core strength training, running, walking, and even physical therapy. The weights are made from stretchy mercerized cotton, making them more breathable and comfortable than other styles.
Gaiam Strength Training Ankle Weights
Gaiam Strength Training Ankle Weights [9] ($15) are recommended for pilates, yoga, dance, aerobics, and other cardio exercises. Gaiam's two and a half pound ankle weights have an average 4.5 rating with over 2,800 reviews on Amazon. It's one of the most trustworthy ankle weight sets out there that's also under $20.
AMBOR Ankle Weights
AMBOR Ankle Weights [10] ($30) are filled with small iron beads rather than sand for a slimmer feel. Each five pound set comes with a drawstring bag and two ankle weights that can be lowered down to one pound by removing individual beads. The brand also offers weights in smaller sizes.
P.volve Ankle Weights
If you're a fitness class junkie, love aerobics, or get your daily exercise by taking long walks around the neighbourhood, then P.volve Ankle Weights [11] ($23) are for you. The company assures these will not only tone your legs, but improve lower body strength and balance too.
Fitnessery Ankle Weights
Designed with a silver reflective trim for sun-down workouts, Fitnessery Ankle Weights [12] ($19) put safety first. They're made from anti-chafing neoprene fabric and flexible for any workout with a 360 degree equal weight distribution.
TheraBand Ankle Weights
Lined with a plush, non-abrasive terrycloth interior, TheraBand Ankle Weights [13] ($18) feel like luxury but cost a fraction of the price. Use these to work refine your balance technique and lower body strength training.
Bala Bangles
As seen on Shark Tank, Bala Bangles [14] ($50) are available in either one and two pound weights and are just as fashionable as they are versatile. The brand offers over five different colours and their velcro weights can be worn on both your ankles and hands. It's a two-for-one deal!