I bought the 40 lb version with shoulder straps in April 2023 after using a 12 lb weight vest for trail hikes for some time. I really liked the removable weights, as it allowed me to slowly ramp up the intensity while allowing my body to safely adapt. I loaded the vest for 20 lbs for my first outing, and after 3 miles I was completely exhausted. What a workout! After that I slowly added an extra 4 lb bag every week or two until I finally hit 40 lbs. At first it was a real challenge to wear it for about 4 miles on flat ground, but now I comfortably hike 7 pounds with significant elevation changes. I definitely feel that I'm ready to step up to a heavier vest, but I can't recommend this product enough. The first is secure (although your shoulders will take some time before they stop hurting) and the quality has held up over the dozens of times I've worn this vest the last 9 months. Start small and gradually work your way up and you'll be amazed at your own perseverance and toughness.

Regarding the materials used, the product is well made. I had an issue with the shoulder pads not shipping. Although Amazon had no way to correct this directly without me losing the good price I got (The price has gone up since it was ordered, so returning and repurchasing looks like giving up the good price paid), reaching out to the company, directly, resolved the issue quickly and easily.

Despite now having the shoulder pads, the issue is that very little weight is distributed to any other part of your body than your shoulders. A hip belt would likely go a long way in allowing me to wear the weight for longer periods before feeling strain in my trapezius muscles. A rucksack with hip belt would probably have been a better option. Also, I thought 40 lbs was going to be too light, but I removed about 40% of the weight and it still fatigues the shoulders after a 1-mile walk. I will drop the weights into a backpack just to see if it feels better with my hips bearing the weight.

I use this vest every week and it's very resourceful . You can do just about any workout with this vest

My sister wanted this for runs. She has yet to use it but I like it and the weight is adjustable with the bags

This is the second run max weighted vest I've bought. The first was for my self for my walk and stair climbs at the gym my second one is a Christmas gift for a family member. The vest is made of great quality depending on your work out and the amount of weight you've added to the vest it may require a bit more of consistent adjustments but other then that I really enjoy it and definitely recommend it to anyone who stops and has questions of it.