Weighted Vest 101
WHY WEIGHTED VESTS?
A weighted vest can be utilized as a sensory instrument to help increase focus, concentration, and self-regulation. Weighted vests provide proprioceptive input using deep pressure which sends signals to the brain which, as a result, helps a person feel calm and increase focus.
HOW MUCH WEIGHT SHOULD THEY BE?
Typically, we recommend weighted vests be no more than 10% of your body weight plus one pound. SO, for a child who weighs 43 pounds, we might recommend a vest that weighs no more than 5 pounds of weight distributed within it.
HOW LONG CAN THEY BE WORN AND WHEN?
The length of how long the weighted vest should be worn is dependent on each individual’s unique circumstances, because as we all know, everyone is unique as are their needs. Unfortunately, there is no magic formula for this one. When they can be worn, again, is person specific! Often times, kids will use them during times when their bodies would need a bit more support (i.e. at school, church, homework, etc.). We recommend discussing with your primary occupational therapist the length that will be best for you and which times and situations may be ideal for wearing.
WHICH ONE DO I BUY? THERE ARE SO MANY OPTIONS!
Attached are some links for weighted vests, just click on the photo to find the shopping site. As Amazon Associates, we do get a small kickback on qualifying purchases, however, the price of each recommendation remains the exact same for you whether following our links or looking them up independently!
Honeycomb Vest:
Two pounds of weight are included with this vest, though more can be added which is a great option, plus super cute and stylish and from Fun and Function! This vest is $109, so it comes in a bit higher than the other options, but is definitely one of the cutest in our opinion.
Fleece Vest:
ZooVaa has a great microfiber fleece weighted compression vest! At $54.98, this vest is a great option that is soft and the weights are adjustable.
Denim Jacket:
At $54.99, this soft and stretchy denim ZooVaa jacket is cute as a button but super functional, because it has a soft liner on the inside with insert pockets for weight!
Poofer Vest:
This light grey-weighted poofer vest is another product by ZooVaa and again comes in at the price point $54.99
Weighted Compression Vest:
Harkla is a fantastic sensory-friendly online store and they have this cute blue weighted compression vest which comes with 2 pounds of weight already in it (though more can be added)! This vest is a mid-range price point at $62.99 and comes in three sizes.
EXTRA WEIGHTS:
Harkla has a set of extra weights that can easily be distributed throughout the vest equaling 2lbs (4, ¼ lb Weights & 2, ½ lb Weights) for $19.99.
If you choose to purchase a weighted vest like one of the ones above, be sure to buy some extra weights if they are needed or if they are advised by your child’s primary occupational therapist.
Do you have a favorite weighted vest?! These five are all different styles and textures, but the options are truly endless!
By: Alexi M. Christensen, MA, OTR/L
