Should you train with a weight vest for Hyrox?

Only after building a solid unweighted base. Weight vest training is useful for athletes who have raced at least once and are looking to increase training intensity without adding more volume. Add vest work 8 to 12 weeks out from your target race, starting with running and carries before adding to full simulations.

What weight vest for Hyrox?

20 lb (approximately 9 kg) is the standard load for most functional fitness vest training. This is the same weight used in popular benchmark workouts. Start lighter (10 lb) if you are new to weighted running.

Is the 5.11 TacTec good for Hyrox training?

Yes. The 5.11 TacTec plate carrier is the most commonly used vest in functional fitness training. The load rides high on the torso, which maintains better running posture than low-riding vests. It accepts standard 5.11 plates or aftermarket equivalents.

Weight Vest for Hyrox Training: When to Add Load and What to Buy

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Overview

A weight vest increases the metabolic demand of running, carries, and station work without requiring additional volume. Used correctly, vest training in the 8 to 12 weeks before a race builds a fitness buffer that makes race weight feel lighter by comparison.

Used incorrectly — too heavy, too early, or without adequate base fitness — vest training increases injury risk without proportional benefit.

When To Use A Weight Vest

Add vest training only after you have raced at least once and have a solid unweighted base. The appropriate progression: start with weighted running (10 to 20-minute runs at 10 lb), then add to farmers carry practice, then add to full station work. Do not train all components vested simultaneously — that compounds load across every system at once.

Stop all vest training 10 to 14 days before race day to allow the stimulus to absorb and arrive at the start line uncompromised.

Top Picks

The 5.11 Tactical TacTec plate carrier is the standard in functional fitness. The load rides high on the torso — important for running mechanics — and the vest is adjustable across a wide range of body sizes. Plates are sold separately; aftermarket options are available. 20 lb is the standard loaded configuration.

5.11 Tactical

TacTec Plate Carrier (20 lb)

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Best for: Athletes training with additional load for running, carries, and air squats

The most widely used weight vest for functional fitness training. Accepts standard plate inserts. 20 lb is the standard loaded weight. Structured vest keeps the load high on the torso, which suits running and station work.

— Accepts 5.11 or aftermarket plate inserts
— Load rides high — better running posture than low-riding vests
— Adjustable shoulder and side straps
— 20 lb configured weight — plates sold separately

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Budget Option

Gorilla Sports adjustable weight vests use removable iron sand packets rather than hard plates. The soft construction is more flexible than a plate carrier, which suits some athletes for carry work. Load is adjustable from approximately 5 to 30 kg depending on configuration purchased.

Gorilla Sports

Adjustable Weight Vest

Best for: Budget-conscious athletes starting weighted training; beginners building to 20 lb load

Adjustable weight vest using removable iron sand packets rather than hard plates. Load can be set between 5 and 30 kg depending on configuration. A more affordable entry into weighted training than a plate carrier.

— Adjustable load via removable weight packets
— Available in multiple max-weight configurations
— Softer construction than plate carriers — more flexible for carries
— Machine washable outer shell

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How To Programme

A practical 8-week vest progression: Weeks 1 to 2, one vest run per week at 10 lb for 20 minutes. Weeks 3 to 4, increase to 15 to 20 lb. Weeks 5 to 6, add one farmers carry session per week vested. Week 7, one full station simulation with vest. Week 8, remove vest and deload before race.

Verdict

The 5.11 TacTec is the benchmark. Only add vest training once you have a race under your belt and a solid unweighted base. Start lighter than you think is necessary and build progressively. Remove vest load 10 to 14 days before your target race.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should you train with a weight vest for Hyrox?: Only after building a solid unweighted base. Weight vest training is useful for athletes who have raced at least once and are looking to increase training intensity without adding more volume. Add vest work 8 to 12 weeks out from your target race, starting with running and carries before adding to full simulations.
What weight vest for Hyrox?: 20 lb (approximately 9 kg) is the standard load for most functional fitness vest training. This is the same weight used in popular benchmark workouts. Start lighter (10 lb) if you are new to weighted running.
Is the 5.11 TacTec good for Hyrox training?: Yes. The 5.11 TacTec plate carrier is the most commonly used vest in functional fitness training. The load rides high on the torso, which maintains better running posture than low-riding vests. It accepts standard 5.11 plates or aftermarket equivalents.