B—July 26, 2025
I used the Spartan Shadow 20lb weighted vest on a 10.2-mile hike, and it held up beautifully. The curved plates are comfortable and stay completely secure thanks to the dual Velcro retention straps inside each pocket. I saw another review mention concern about how the plates are loaded. In my experience, most vests I’ve used — including those from 5.11 and Condor — load plates from the bottom as well, and this one does it cleanly. There are actually two different types of retention systems holding the plates in place. The Velcro is strong, and I had zero issues with shifting, noise, or slippage, even after several hours on the trail. Also worth noting: I weighed the plates myself — they came in heavier than the advertised 8.75 lbs, which was a pleasant surprise. You don’t usually get more than what’s listed these days. What really stood out was the low-profile look. A few people in my rucking and hiking group asked about it and mentioned how it doesn’t scream “tactical” like some other carriers. Makes it easier to wear in public without getting odd looks. The side pockets are another big win — one zips shut, the other folds over for quick access. I was able to fit my iPhone 15 Pro Max with no issue. The vest also came with three clean patches (Spartan, Punisher, and American flag), and the packaging was solid — though I didn’t get photos because I tore into it with excitement and my cleaning crew got to it quicker than they usually do. Bottom line: this is a comfortable, durable, and well-thought-out vest that outperforms its price. Whether you’re into hiking, rucking, or weighted conditioning, this one’s a standout. Read more
Customer—September 2, 2025
Love it! Awesome vest! I got the 20 lb set. Definitely a great value for what you get! Love that it’s adjustable and definitely durable. Would definitely recommend to anyone looking for a weighted vest Read more
Blake S.—November 3, 2025
Great vest. I went back and forth on which to buy and if I should get sand bags of the metal plates. Overall I’m thrilled with my purchase. I walk the neighborhood every evening with it and it feels comfortable when on. It is difficult to get in and out of. I actually got stuck once and had to have my wife come pull it off as the back flipped when putting it on and my arm and head were half stuck. Would have had to cut it off had she not been there. lol! Other than that - I say buy one!! Your body will thank you! Read more
alan chavez—October 30, 2025
Solid vest! Read more
Matt—August 21, 2025
For price point and quality, I love it! Some of the contour of the plates is not that great but serviceable. Read more
N&M—October 15, 2024
Logically I thought that the weight plates were placed from the top down as if you were going to put them in a pocket in your shirt, but it is not that simple. The weight plates are placed in the opposite direction to gravity, and are only held by the velcro, which gives the feeling that they are going to come off by detaching from the velcro that holds them. I would have liked it to be simpler, I saw another one that simply has individual weight bars that you take off and put on until you get a weight to your liking, and it is even cheaper than this one. Read more
Rockl—October 1, 2024
This vest and the two-weight plates are well-made and easy to set up. The vest has several velcro joints that make it very adjustable and easy to put on and take off. I wear them every morning for at least an hour, and after just one week, I can already feel improved back strength. Twenty pounds doesn't sound like much weight, but they're a good choice for building endurance while walking, jogging, or working around the house. Overall, it is a good product and value. Read more