Ruck Yeah! My Experience with the AION Weighted Vest

Sometimes small changes make a noticeable difference. Since incorporating the AION weighted vest into my routine, I’ve experienced subtle but encouraging improvements, such as increased core engagement and noticeable ease during push-ups without the vest. As someone on a weight loss journey and working to build strength at 48, I’m proud of getting in shape—though I wish I had started sooner.

But strength training isn’t just about aesthetics or endurance. It’s about staying strong as I age. I started using the vest to help build muscle mass, maintain bone density, and protect against osteoporosis. Because of menopause, half of women over 50 will suffer a fracture due to bone loss, and resistance training is one of the best ways to slow, stop, or even reverse bone loss. Plus, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for women in the U.S., and weighted workouts improve heart health too.

This vest has added a challenging but motivating layer to my daily exercise routine, from power yoga to long walks in the mountains. I initially had concerns about the fit, but after working with AION’s helpful customer service, I’m now a devoted fan. Here’s my full experience.

First Impressions and Customer Service

I used AION’s sizing chart and determined I needed a size large for women. Within a week, the vest arrived at my little house in the woods, securely packed in a sturdy cardboard box. Excited to try it on, I was dismayed when it didn’t fit. Despite measuring carefully and double-checking my size, I couldn’t zip the vest over my chest.

Dejected, I contacted AION’s customer service. Genny, a representative from their team, was quick and helpful:

“Our vests are meant to be a tight and snug fit. The compression is a key factor in the function of the vest. When you try to zip up, there should be a 4-8 inch gap before zipping. The material will stretch, so you may need to pull both ends together for it to zip. After approximately 10 minutes of wearing the vest, your body will naturally adjust to the compression.”

I was skeptical but decided to give it another shot. Sure enough, with some effort, I zipped it up, and I could breathe! I wore it around the house for the rest of the evening to ensure I wouldn’t be miserable during my morning workout.

Performance and Comfort

The next morning, I put the vest to the test during a power yoga session. Unlike other weighted vests I’ve tried, the AION vest didn’t shift or cause me to lose balance during poses. Five pounds doesn’t sound like much, but it makes push-ups noticeably harder! I wore the vest over only a sports bra during the session and appreciated how it stayed firmly in place without chafing or discomfort.

After yoga, I left the vest on for a 3.5-mile ruck with my dogs as the sun rose over the mountains. The trail includes an 800-foot elevation gain and typically takes about 70 minutes. Rucking—walking or hiking with a weighted vest or pack, has been a game changer for me. It turns an ordinary walk into a full-body workout, increasing my stamina, strengthening my legs and core, and improving my overall conditioning. I wore a lightweight alpaca fiber shirt under the vest and a hoodie on top. The vest didn’t rub under my arms or ride up, but it did add unexpected warmth. By the end of the walk, my shirt and the vest were soaked. Amazingly, after laying it on a towel, it was dry by the next morning.

One unexpected benefit of the vest is its impact on my posture. The snug compression naturally encourages me to stand up straight and maintain good alignment, which I’ve noticed even when I'm not wearing it.

Materials and Durability

The vest is sturdily constructed with Neoprene/Nylon Airprene for breathability and antimicrobial materials that keep it smelling fresh despite my sweaty workouts. After two weeks of daily use, it shows no signs of wear and continues to fit snugly but comfortably.

I’m 5'4" and 176 lbs, with a strong build, and I found the large size works well for me. The compression fit isn’t restrictive; it feels like part of me while working out. The vest stays in place and allows for full range of motion, making it ideal for various types of exercise.

Final Thoughts

The AION weighted vest has become a staple in my fitness routine. Its comfortable, secure fit and high-quality materials make it a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to intensify their workouts.

I purchased this vest with my own money after hearing about it on The Ultimate Human with Gary Brecka, where he shares science-based biohacking advice. This review is purely based on my personal experience, and I couldn’t be happier with the results.

What are you doing to level up your workout routine?