I'm 5'1" and a female and am wondering if this vest would be better than a long vest? I'm training for the CPAT and pack tests for firefighting.
1780030
I tried on a long type vest and a short type vest at Dicks Sports before buying, I would suggest to do the same first before deciding. But, I like the short vest because it seems to put more weight on your shoulders, chest and upper back where the longer vest put a little more pressure on the lower back and not so much on the upper section of your back.
1780031
I would recommend the women's vest. It goes up to 30 lbs and it more suited for a lady's frame. Search womens MIR vest. Unless you need something heavier.
1780032
I prefer the short vest. I'm a wildland firefighter, using the vest in the off season to stay in shape. I definitely like that it holds up to 60lbs, I find that I don't need any more than that for training purposes (the pack test is only 45lbs). It does take a toll on your shoulders after a while but all weight vests of this kind do the same. The MIR vests run a little cheaper than the V-Force and I have never had any issue with mine.
1780033
That's funny that you ask because that's exactly what I used it for. Your height should not be a factor you should be fine! Goodluck
1780034
I'm only 5'6" and I don't have any complaints. I, personally, would not get a long vest. I use this to train for my PFT's for the Marines.
1780035
Danielle,Sorry for the late reply. Ultimately, you will get used to operating with more weight on your upper body, regardless of how long the vest is. I am a male, but I think the short vest is appropriate. The body can better carry heavy loads the higher they are on the shoulders and back. I backpack from time to time and aim to get the pack as high as possible. Experienced packers give this advice to men and women. Though I am no firefighter, I assume the case to be similar. Though oxygen canisters are seem long, you still want them higher on the shoulders/back, right?
1262695
I am an average sized male (6' 165 lbs) and it is a little big on me. However, you can tighten it to make it more form fitting. Adding the ice vests also makes it more form fitting as well. Also, just a tip: Freeze the packs for at least two days prior to use.
5764
You will be fine. I am 6' and 220, and i have the vest at its tightest. As for length, it is about an inch above my waist, but you won't care at all. You will probably be more worried about the friction with it against your biceps on certain movements (particularly running and dips)
1194247
Albert: I am 6'5" 230. I ordered the "XX large" and it fit great. The sides of the vest completely break apart and attach by Velcro, making it easy to increase/decrease circumference fit. My waist is 42" and there is PLENTY of real estate on the 2X to increase from 42" up. Great vest, tons of Molly straps. The only thing I would suggest is looking for a belt loop apparatus to connect the vest to your waist so when you sit in a vehicle the vest doesn't raise up. I found that annoying, but maybe that's just me. I let a family member use it for a while and they loved the vest and didn't know what I was talking about! Hope this helps Albert: I am 6'5" 230. I ordered the "XX large" and it fit great. The sides of the vest completely break apart and attach by Velcro, making it easy to increase/decrease circumference fit. My waist is 42" and there is PLENTY of real estate on the 2X to increase from 42" up. Great vest, tons of Molly straps. The only thing I would suggest is looking for a belt loop apparatus to connect the vest to your waist so when you sit in a vehicle the vest doesn't raise up. I found that annoying, but maybe that's just me. I let a family member use it for a while and they loved... » Read More Albert: I am 6'5" 230. I ordered the "XX large" and it fit great. The sides of the vest completely break apart and attach by Velcro, making it easy to increase/decrease circumference fit. My waist is 42" and there is PLENTY of real estate on the 2X to increase from 42" up. Great vest, tons of Molly straps. The only thing I would suggest is looking for a belt loop apparatus to connect the vest to your waist so when you sit in a vehicle the vest doesn't raise up. I found that annoying, but maybe that's just me. I let a family member use it for a while and they loved the vest and didn't know what I was talking about! Hope this helps « Show Less
628563
I'm 5'4" male it fits me just fine. Two velcro straps fully adjustable.You might want to consider the other vests on the market which are designed for females. Those female vests have all the weight on their back in order to compensate for their bust in the front. And they well balanced. This one will fit too, if this is the only one you are interested. This one is exceptionally well made and well balanced, though.
652928
As others have commented, the thickness with the weights is the one issue I think you'll run into. But it is a great vest that stays tight to the body and because its "short", it allows for a lot of movement and flexibility in workouts.
1382982
I would say it is for males and females. It will compress somewhat when you cinch the waist strap (velcro). I'm only guessing but it may be uncomfortable for a "larger" woman. If you are only going to walk then there will be no problem. I (male) usually run with this vest and find that I fits better when cinched tightly using the attached, wide Velcro belt . The 40 1-pound weights come with it. You should add them symmetrically to the pockets in the vest to evenly distribute the weight. There are pockets in the front and back. Total of 40 pockets. I have used this vest to add resistance to my running exercise and would highly recommend it. Very good quality. I would say it is for males and females. It will compress somewhat when you cinch the waist strap (velcro). I'm only guessing but it may be uncomfortable for a "larger" woman. If you are only going to walk then there will be no problem. I (male) usually run with this vest and find that I fits better when cinched tightly using the attached, wide Velcro belt . The 40 1-pound weights come with it. You should add them symmetrically to the pockets in the vest to evenly distribute the weight. There are pockets in the front and back. Total of 40 pockets. I have used this vest to add... » Read More I would say it is for males and females. It will compress somewhat when you cinch the waist strap (velcro). I'm only guessing but it may be uncomfortable for a "larger" woman. If you are only going to walk then there will be no problem. I (male) usually run with this vest and find that I fits better when cinched tightly using the attached, wide Velcro belt . The 40 1-pound weights come with it. You should add them symmetrically to the pockets in the vest to evenly distribute the weight. There are pockets in the front and back. Total of 40 pockets. I have used this vest to add resistance to my running exercise and would highly recommend it. Very good quality. « Show Less
838691
Sure! It's a great vest,,,, it's adjustable so you can start lightweight,,,, and add weight as needed,,,,,I highly recommend this one,, if you're going to invest in a good quality weight vest,,
1680715
It might be tight - my medium size vest measures about 42" at the bottom. Maybe the large size would be better? I'm a 34" waist and 170#, and the medium fits me just fine.
322580
I have no idea how that would fit you. I am 6'3 280 with very broad shoulders and I got the 2xl and it fit fine. I can say it is adjustable. I think I should have gotten the xL but I am not sure. If there is a supply store around that sells vests it wouldn't be a bad idea to go and see if you could try it on. I am losing weight and don't expect to fit into the vest forever. I may have to get a smaller size. Not sure what the 4 buckles purpose are but that sounds like a plausible purpose for them.
1577532
Your height and weight is more important than your age, I'm 5' 10" & 210 pounds, but I think this vest might fit someone as small as 5' 6" and 130 pounds. Better to get an actual answer from someone with a small frame. Good luck!
122994
I am 5' 4" and it took a little work to snug it all up. But in the end it worked out well. If ventillation is important, this rig is the one. If a snug fit is more your taste than the UTG SWAT vest is better for smaller frames.
2017855
My successful experience was to get an XL for fit and comfort and then use a cord belt to secure the vest around my waist to prevent it from riding up when I dived. That worked best for me. Good luck and enjoy.
2166931
I wore this vest for an extended period with rifle mags in the long pouches, a full frame handgun in the pistol holster, and pistol mags in their respective pouches. After adjusting the shoulder straps and belt straps for a snug fit, I didn't notice much movement at all. It will all depend on how well you fit the vest to yourself (it's fully adjustable), as well as what equipment you are carrying, but I don't see a lot of noise issues for myself. I should also point out that I was wearing BDUs with elbow and knee pads and a ghillie shawl if that helps.
1223413
I'm 5'5", and I found this to be too long so that it impeded my gait when walking. GoFit and JFit weight vests fit my frame better.
60118
It won't be snug. I'm 6 foot 1 and 192 pounds. The vest is slightly loose on me. It feels comfortable and I have no issues with it...but sometimes I need to hold the best with one hand while I remove my camera.
1354050
my shoulders got a little uncomfortable until I got used to the vest. you can always take out some of the weights and work your way up. I've found the padding in the shoulders to be adequate, but I don't jog or run with the vest on.