Gaiam Walkvest Kit by Debbie Rocker, New Design (Medium) Reviews

• Good product, but some drawbacks

  
  By A3A62AZAPRJQUZ on 2008-04-29
  The idea is great: adding evenly distributed weight close to your body's core, to make it work harder without adding stress in any one place. An ergonomic advantage of this particular vest is that the thin weights lie flat against your body. It's lightweight, the cut is comfortable, and the look is almost stylish, so I don't feel too dorky wearing it for a walk in public. The shoulders are nice and wide -- also good for weight distribution -- so I haven't felt tugging or pressure there.
  
  The disadvantages: because the weights are tallish, their tops hit my ribs in an uncomfortable place, so when I move there's friction and poking. (And I'm long-waisted, so I wonder how it fits on shorter waists.) I can slide the weights around some and move them to different pockets, but it's still a problem. The other major problem is that I have looked everywhere for additional weights (the starter kit is just that, including only four out of a possible sixteen pounds) with no success: nothing has turned up in local stores, or on Amazon, Google or the Gaiam site. The Walkvest site has been out-of-stock for weeks. So I'm stuck with four pounds, which is really frustrating. I'll be interested to see if it becomes more or less comfortable with additional weight.
  
  One other note: I found the vest runs a bit large. I usually wear a medium or bigger, but my WalkVest medium is quite loose on me.
  
  Advice: Before you buy, see if you can find additional weights. And since a good fit is critical, best to try on different sizes first.
  
  Update 5/7/08: I just got an e-mail from Debbie Rocker saying the new weights won't be available for ordering from walkvest[dot]com until the middle of June.
  
  

• Love it!

  
  By A1UXSYLMA0YR68 on 2008-03-24
  Vest is a lightweight cotton/canvas comfortable washable material.
  Vest has refective safety strip accents.
  Seems somewhat stylish although I can't explain why!!
  Sides are mesh for breathability with comfortable arm holes.
  Has lots of small long pockets with snaps for weights.
  One large pocket on the upper back of the vest.
  There are two clips on the front that are easy to adjust while walking for fit and comfort.
  Sometimes I clip the clips to pull weights into body and sometimes I open them to adjust the feel of the weight- I can do this as I am walking easily.
  Weights are small and sturdy are easy to arrange- they snap into pockets.
  *You'll probably want more weights soon.
  You'll work up a sweat without the strain of carrying weights because of the overall distribution of small weights.
  I was worried about possible strain in my back but haven't noticed any difference.
  Easy to use straight out of the box.
  **It would be nice if it had a larger pocket for keys/phone.
  
  

• walkvest

  
  By A10V5FKC8H0VCM on 2008-04-01
  I have increased the weight of my vest to 8lbs. It is one of the best pieces of exercise equipment I have ever used. You can feel the effects of the weights on your body. I have had it for about 2 weeks, and have lost 2 inches and 5 lbs. I started with the 4lb weights that come with the walkvest and have increased to the 8lbs, today. I suggest that if you are not used to exercise you start with the 2 lbs and work your way up.
  
  It's a lot easier then the 10lb free weights I am used to lifting. I use the dvd that comes with it and also wear it when I am walking outside or using my Gazelle air walker.
  
  It's a great way to use weights and fight the bone loss of aging. I am 57 yrs young.
  
  

• Great way to rev up your walking!

  
  By A1J5XLMM1CI6S7 on 2008-04-29
  I was amazed how simply adding four pounds to your walking can make a difference! When I first ordered it I thought I needed to buy additional weights right away (but none were currently available). But when the vest came and I saw how heavy it was I'm glad I didn't hurt myself and try to do too much weight at once (and trust me, I'm not new to walking OR lifting weights). Be sure to at least listen to the audio program that comes with it. I'm glad I listened on my first walk as I was planning on wearing the vest all the time. The audio says to only wear when walking for exercise or your body will get accustomed to the weight .... a good example of how you don't notice when you put on a "pound or two" (and keep on adding it on!) I'd DEFINITELY recommend this particular vest for anyone looking to amp up their walking program as it's well made and very comfortable to wear. Note: it runs a bit large so buy a size smaller (I'm an 6/8 and a small is PERFECT).
  
  BTW... everyone's complaining about not being able to find additional weights. What I've done is buy 1 1/4" x 1/4" bar steel from a local metal supply house & have them cut it into the right length (6"). They fit perfect and weigh 1/2 lb each. To keep your vest from getting worn, make sure to sand down the rough edges and spray them with some Rustoleum to keep them from rusting. (Note: I only did this as the manufacturer has been out of additional weights since I've started looking for them. If the manufacturer had them available, I would have purchased them directly from them. Sorry, I just couldn't wait 'til they got around to making more!)
  
  

• Weights NOT Included

  
  By AHW1T6YOEJYFV on 2008-05-15
  I just purchased this vest so I cannot make a judgement on how well it works, but I was very disappointed that I purchased this vest believing that I was getting a 20 lb. vest when in fact the only weights that were included were for a total of 4 lbs. The information included in the package said you can "purchase" weights when you're ready to add more. Great. I didn't realize I had to spend even more money to get what they said was included in the purchase price anyway. Very misleading.
  
  
• Gaiam Walkvest good for Walking only
  By AF65N61XZDFD on 2008-06-30
  Good concept and comfortable fit, but the buckles on the vest becomes loose very easily, so if you plan on also jogging/running, it will not stay secure. Also, some of the pockets that holds the weights are not consistent in size; some were stitched unevenly and hence I could not insert the weights in some of the pockets. If you want extra weights as this kit only comes with 4 pounds, you can buy extra but they sell them in 5 pounds sets that cost $30! I wouldn't have bought them if I knew these weights are so expensive as I now need at least 10 additional pounds for a whopping $60! The material of the vest is also pretty thin, so I'm almost anticipating that with more use and more added weights, the stitching will likely come apart.
  
  
• Great for building strength
  By A2IGRZW3DKE1H8 on 2008-03-25
  The walkvest is great for making you keep good posture while walking. It is also wonderful for building strength when you are retired like I am. I especially love the MP3 player pocket. It is a little hard to get to but at least you have music while walking. I ordered the L and found it to run large. I have now ordered the S and hope it works.I have also found that my body adjusted to the 4lb weights and need extra weights, however you cannot find them on the internet to purchase.Great price for a great workout.
  
  
• walkvest
  By A3Q5KJJCA4SO4S on 2008-04-15
  Gaiam Walkvest Kit by Debbie Rocker, New Design
  Vest fits geat--good buy. But I have found it difficult to purchase extra weights.. There are extra pockets....but where do I get the weights
  
  
• Product needs work
  By ATF1NN3CVN8R0 on 2008-07-02
  Delivery and service were great; however, the walking vest was bulky, even when tightening the straps. The weights were vertical and were uncomfortable for a 5'4" female--they didn't fit the curve of the back. Perhaps horizontal weights might work? Bottom line, I like the idea but the product needs some work for looks and comfort. Thanks
  
  
• Don't know it it's doing any good
  By A18OC8C7RBDTH6 on 2008-04-28
  I've been wearing the Walkvest on my hourly walks since it arrived. I feel good about wearing it, fitness wise, but haven't seen any weight loss results.
  
  
• Walk Vest works great
  By A3B3G3FA392JUB on 2008-06-02
  I've had this Walk Vest for 1 month now and I can say that I really like it. I use it while working out on my treadmill and it has really added some nice intensity to my workout. I'm not sure I'm losing any more weight with it, but I can say I am sweating more! Things I don't necessarily like: the collar area seems to rub against my neck which tends to bug me while I am working out. Also, I want more weights to add and they seem to be out until the middle of June. I did buy a cheap ($1.25) 2.5 lb. circular weight at WalMart and put it in the MP3 player pocket on the back of the vest. That helped to add more weight, but since this pocket was not designed to hold weight, I suspect it will give way any day. All and all, a good purchase and I feel much lighter after my workouts!
  
  
• Love it....
  By A3GU2XE8YOFFLK on 2008-06-07
  As an over-45 gal fitness-minded gal, I bought the walk vest to ease into walking instead of running for a workout - (less stress on the joints) - and I must say I LOVE IT. I have been able to maintain my ideal weight by walking, whereas I used to have to run to get enough of an aerobic workout.
  
  
• Pockets to small for weights.
  By AQA1PHW9JK820 on 2008-06-10
  The pockets were stiched up to high to hold some of the weights and I felt silly wereing it. so I retuned it.
  
  
• Walk Vest
  By A2I5OC3AQBTPC1 on 2008-07-10
  Very disappointing product. The price was so high and the product is way too hot and flimsy to use. I used the size chart online, but it was way too big. Good idea, but waste of money. Maybe if it fit better, it would work.
  
  
• Five stars for the Gaiam Walkvest by Debbie Rocker
  By A19D4GK5ABJWAE on 2008-04-16
  Gaiam Walkvest Kit by Debbie Rocker, New Design I used the Walkvest onboard the Crystal Symphony, to stay fit while cruising. With all the great food, a difficult task to be sure!! I absolutely loved it and felt it does exactly what it claims to do. I felt great, didn't gain any weight and had loads of energy to enjoy all the things offered onboard. For anyone that likes to walk, as a form of exercise, this just adds a better dimension, with the use of weights to create resistance and over-all, a good cardio workout. I highly recommend this product - it makes walking more fun and more beneficial - a double positive!! Buy and enjoy!
  
  
• Walkvest
  By A4FDXKIM1SPA9 on 2008-04-18
  I have been using the Walkvest for about 2 months now. I love it! I really can feel and see a difference in my thighs and buttox. The weights also helps your posture.
  
  
• Gaiam Walkvest
  By A1AUWJKCQKE1W5 on 2008-04-19
  I like this item. It fits well and is easy to adjust. I wish it had more weights. There is room to put more but haven't been able to find them. I don't use the video, I just put it on when I am working or taking a walk.
  
  
• excellent product
  By AWBY8WPDD62T4 on 2008-04-21
  This is an excellent product. I have enjoyed wearing it on my morning walks.
  
  
• Love this Vest!
  By A33CB77RZ7RWR2 on 2008-04-23
  I love this vest! I sweat more when I wear it doing the same workout I normally do and I can tell it makes a difference! I wish it had more weights with it but I'll just have to purchase more. I tried Debbie's workout video when I got it and boy did I get a good workout... I use it for my Leslie Sansone workouts too and I just love the added workout I get, almost without trying! I still have to walk outdoors in it but I am very happy with this product!
  
  
• Great idea, great product
  By A2TRRAKB76IMSI on 2008-04-24
  After working with a trainer who used this vest, I was immediately hooked and purchased one for myself. The new design is nice, a bit more fashionable and includes reflective strips, which I love as I do quite a bit of walking with my dog on a rural road with no sidewalks. I have since added additional weight by purchasing directly through the Walkvest company, which I feel has stepped up the workout. I have the XS/S size which fits me perfectly (I'm 5'6" and 115 lbs.) and I like to use the adjustable straps to make it as tight as possible to avoid any jarring or shifting.
  
  I'm more of a runner than a walker (it isn't recommended you wear this to run) so I primarily use the vest on my "rest" days or when I take the dog for a walk in the mornings. I even find myself strapping the vest on while doing chores around the house (vacuuming, dusting, etc.) for that 'extra burn' provided by the weight in the vest. I love the big top pocket on the back--it's perfect for keys or other small items and the best part? I can just throw in the washer when I'm all done!
  
  Only negative I have found: It's not the most comfortable to just wear just a tanktop or sports bra underneath, as the vest tends to rub against the sides of my neck while I walk. Wearing a t-shirt is a bit more comfortable.
  
  
• Superb
  By A1XCJGWESHUZP7 on 2008-04-28
  What an asset this has been to my workout. The added weight gives me greater resistance. I recommend the walkvest for anyone looking for a product that can be used at any level of weight loss.
  
  
• skinny any day now!
  By ACEDC5SB62XOD on 2008-04-30
  Love the Debbie Rocker walkvest! First saw it on Valerie Bertenelli and had to have it! The only problem I have found is that you really have to look hard to find additional weights. It comes with 4lbs, but holds up to 16 lbs. Still searching for those extra weights--but overall...you gotta get this thing!
  
  
• As advertized!
  By A176GUXG04MEE8 on 2008-05-02
  This vest is quite a bargain. It is of good quality material and is easy to put on and take off. It comes with a workout DVD and an outdoor guided Audio CD. It does run large, and should fit fairly snugly, so consider getting a size smaller than you usually take. A great product!
  
  
• Walkvest
  By A1HONLPWXX70OA on 2008-05-03
  It is overpriced and does not deliver what it promises . Very disappointed with his purchase . Would like a refund
  
  
• Great Produckt
  By A2JF2TLGLWC1WT on 2008-05-03
  This product came just as described. I wear the vest while on my walks or cleaning around the house. Your body adjusts nicely to it. You don't noticed the exta few pounds until you take the vest off.
  I would recommend this to anyone just looking for an easier way to burn a few extra calories without paying a gym membership
  
  
• Burning Calories!
  By A2SMXZVX0UOZ2 on 2008-05-03
  The Walk Vest changed my evening walks into calorie burning adventures! It is amazing how this little vest can make such a huge difference, changing a neighborhood walk into a workout.
  
  
• great product but a problem ordering more supplies
  By AVGB7CE2161VU on 2008-05-04
  I love the walk vest by Debbie Rocker and think it is a wonderful product, the vest is breatheable and the weights are easy to install. The only problem i have is ordering more weights. Up to 4 pounds of weight are included with the vest which is not enough weight for a more advanced walker or someone used to lifting weights. When you try to order from her site it seems they are perpetually "out of stock".
  
  
• Perfect for everyone!
  By APN4CH6Q2U9JN on 2008-05-06
  The WalkVest should be used by anyone working out by walking, on a treadmill, stairmaster or elliptical machine. The vest enhances all of these workouts making each one much more productive. I can't understand why you don't see everyone wearing one who is walking down the street for exercise! It is very efficient and unbelievably easy to use! Just ask Oprah!
  
  
• Good workout!
  By A1IP87IQ3EPDX0 on 2008-05-07
  This weight vest makes perfect sense, wish I would have thought of it! It really tricks your body into burning more calories.
  
  
• I love my walkvest
  By A33I9I2XE8YLMO on 2008-05-08
  This vest was developed by a woman for women, so it fits just right. It's not big or bulky like other ones. If you get the right size, it fits your form perfectly. The sizing table is accurate. I love that it doesn't flop around or poof out. I use mine for walking and rollerblading. I'm not sure that I would use it to run. I'm not happy that it only comes with 4lbs of weights. You can order the add-ons from walkvest.com but they are on back order right now. They also cost just as much as the vest. So, if you're pretty fit like me, the 4lbs will only help you for a few weeks. After that, you're stuck waiting for the add-ons to come back into stock. I highly recommend the product if you're looking to add a calorie burn to your everyday walks.
  
  

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