Kids who are dealing with sensory issues, overstimulation, and anxiety can all benefit from the use of a weighted vest.
With a large variety of styles, features, and materials to choose from, the hunt for a vest can be overwhelming.
And with all the hype out there around weighted products and clothing, some parents might be wondering if weighted vests even work at all and are worth the time investment.
We’ll cover these concerns and more, as well as share our list of the top 10 best weighted vests on the market today for a child on the autism spectrum!
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| Image | Title | Prime | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
Top | Fun and Function - Blue Weighted Compression Vest for Kids & Adults - Sensory Tool for Children with Special Needs - Deep Pressure for Anxiety & Sensory Issues - Small | PrimeEligible | Check Amazon Price |
 | Fun and Function's Denim Weighted Vest for Children Large (Age 9-10) - Helps Kids with Sensory Issues, Autism, ADHD, Mood, Sensory Over Responding, Travel Issues - Gentle Compression, Weights Included | Prime | Check Amazon Price |
 | Weighted Compression Vest for Children (Ages 5 to 9) by Harkla - Helps with Autism, ADHD, Mood, Sensory Overload - Weighted Vest for Kids with Sensory Issues | PrimeEligible | Check Amazon Price |
 | ZooVaa Weighted Sensory Vest for Kids, Children’s Compression Vest w/Removable Weights for Boys and Girls Brown | PrimeEligible | Check Amazon Price |
 | Special Supplies Weighted Sensory Compression Vest for Kids with Processing Disorders, ADHD, and Autism, Calming and Supportive with Adjustable Weight Fit (X-Small 14x24 inches) | PrimeEligible | Check Amazon Price |
 | Weighted Compression Vest for Children (Ages 2 to 4) by Harkla - Helps with Autism, ADHD, Mood, Sensory Overload - Weighted Vest for Kids with Sensory Issues | PrimeEligible | Check Amazon Price |
 | UrbanRed Weighted Vest for Kids with Sensory Issues, Ages 5-9 (Medium) - Compression Vest for Kids with Sensory Issues for Autism, ADD, ADHD, Sensory | PrimeEligible | Check Amazon Price |
 | Fun and Function's Weighted Fleece Zippered Vest for Children XX-Large(Ages 13-15) Navy, Helps Kids with Sensory Issues, Autism, ADHD, Mood & Attention, Sensory Over Responding, Travel Issues | Prime | Check Amazon Price |
 | Stretch Denim Weighted Vest by Fun and Function - Provides Gentle Compression and Weight for Sensory Integration - Weights Included - Ages 5+ | Prime | Check Amazon Price |
Do Weighted Vests Work for Autism?
While their use is not specifically restricted to helping kids with autism, kids all across the autism spectrum can especially benefit from weighted vests.
Not only can weighted items help with emotional regulation, but they have also been proven to help improve certain behavioral or sensory issues as well.
The idea behind weighted clothing is that the additional weight on the child’s body acts as a comforting and soothing element of deep pressure, similar to that of a hug.
Scientifically speaking, this is known as “deep touch pressure” and helps to turn off the sympathetic (“fight or flight”) system and even decrease the levels of stress hormones in the body.
Weighted vests are a component of sensory integration therapy, where the pressure of weighted clothing and bedding is used to help the body improve sensory processing.
It is important to note that the use of weighted clothing will not work to the same degree for each child on the spectrum, and some children may see no benefit at all.
For the best chance at success, weighted clothing should be used as part of a comprehensive occupational therapy strategy and in conjunction with other treatments or remedies.
While research is still ongoing, the use of a weighted vest can be an easy and simple way to try and support your autistic child at a very low cost.
The use of a weighted vest should always be under the supervision of a professional.
How Long Should a Weighted Vest Be Worn?
Weighted vests can be safely worn up to several hours a day. Many therapists recommend the use of weighted vests in small increments of time during targeted activities such as during educational instruction or when the child is in need of comfort.
This will help avoid “habituation” or your child’s body getting used to the new input.
Your child’s occupational therapist or doctor can help you design a weighted vest-wearing schedule best suited to your child’s unique individual needs.
Special undershirts can be worn if your child needs to wear the vest for several hours per day.
While there is no official upper limit as to how long a weighted vest can be worn, it is a good idea to limit use as much as possible and allows your child to take a break every once in a while.
Prolonged use can cause fatigue, skin irritation, and muscle soreness. Compression garments can be a good alternative if your child requires near-constant pressure.
How Heavy Should Your Weighted Vest Be?
Weighted vests typically use around 5-10% of a person’s body weight added to the clothing and equally distributed around the garment for even pressure.
This is about the same amount of weight as a child’s backpack. These vests can be worn either under or over clothing, depending on the child’s preference and the type and style of the garment.
Many vests come with pockets for adding additional weights or weighted bean bags.
It is important to note that weighted vests and other weighted clothing and blankets should only be used under the supervision of an occupational therapist or other healthcare providers.
The 10% weight limit should not be exceeded as it may cause pain and muscle strain.
What are the Best Weighted Vests for a Child with Autism?
Parents and caregivers on the market for the best weighted vest will find many options to choose from.
Factors that may influence your purchase decision include the presence or absence of a compression element, the type of fabric used, the comfort of the vest, ease of use, price, durability, and even style.
We’ve researched for you and selected some of the top vests available on the market based on features and customer reviews!
#1: Fun and Function’s Denim Weighted Vest for Children
- SHOW UP IN STYLE: Finally, a sensory vest that looks like an ordinary – and stylish – denim vest! Allow your child the benefits of a sensory vest without standing out from his peers. Made of a soft, washable material, this vest has hidden internal pockets and hook-and-loop closures by the shoulders so your child can receive calming weight both from the top and along his trunk
- HELP YOUR CHILD FEEL SECURE: In stressful situations or during transitions, the Denim Weighted Vest can help children feel safe & secure. Wear the vest while taking tests or while doing homework to help increase focus; wear to the clinic for calming weight during occupational therapy exercises; and bring on car rides or on trips to encourage easier transitions
- VERSATILE & FUNCTIONAL: Fun and Function’s Denim Weighted Vest fits comfortably over clothing so kids can feel comfortable and look good while getting the sensory input they need. The vest features convenient front pockets, the perfect spot for their fidgets and other supplies. It also features stylish & functional silver buttons – so your child can practice his fine motor skills too!
- WEIGHTS & MORE: The vest comes with 2.5 Ibs of removable weights: Four ¼ Ib weights and two ½ Ib weights for the trunk, and two ¼ Ibs weights for the shoulders. Additional weights can be purchased separately (available on Amazon). Weights are safely positioned in the vest’s internal pockets and can be added or removed as needed. Weights should be carefully and gradually adjusted for each persons needs (The total should never exceed 10-15% of total body weight).
- DETAILS: The Weighted Denim Vest comes in multiple sizes for kids and tweens. Please refer to our sizing chart to determine the best fit. Vest: 93% cotton and 7% spandex. Machine wash with like colors. Weights should be removed from vest before washing. Dry on medium setting
This vest takes the prize for style with a fashionable look that looks just like a regular denim vest. You’d never even guess there are weighted pockets inside!
Weights are also added to the shoulder area for even distribution. A vest such as this one is perfect for a school setting where caregivers can assist a child with quickly putting on the vest during instructional time without needing to undress.
The vest features a unisex design and working exterior pockets that can hold fidget items. It comes with 2.5 lbs of weights to start off and can be increased to 9 lbs with the purchase of additional weights.
The denim material is very durable and comes in 5 different sizes to suit your child.
#2: Fun and Function Weighted Compression Vest
- SHOW UP IN STYLE: Finally, a sensory vest that looks like an ordinary – and stylish – denim vest! Allow your child the benefits of a sensory vest without standing out from his peers. Made of a soft, washable material, this vest has hidden internal pockets and hook-and-loop closures by the shoulders so your child can receive calming weight both from the top and along his trunk
- HELP YOUR CHILD FEEL SECURE: In stressful situations or during transitions, the Denim Weighted Vest can help children feel safe & secure. Wear the vest while taking tests or while doing homework to help increase focus; wear to the clinic for calming weight during occupational therapy exercises; and bring on car rides or on trips to encourage easier transitions
- VERSATILE & FUNCTIONAL: Fun and Function’s Denim Weighted Vest fits comfortably over clothing so kids can feel comfortable and look good while getting the sensory input they need. The vest features convenient front pockets, the perfect spot for their fidgets and other supplies. It also features stylish & functional silver buttons – so your child can practice his fine motor skills too!
- WEIGHTS & MORE: The vest comes with 2.5 Ibs of removable weights: Four ¼ Ib weights and two ½ Ib weights for the trunk, and two ¼ Ibs weights for the shoulders. Additional weights can be purchased separately (available on Amazon). Weights are safely positioned in the vest’s internal pockets and can be added or removed as needed. Weights should be carefully and gradually adjusted for each persons needs (The total should never exceed 10-15% of total body weight).
- DETAILS: The Weighted Denim Vest comes in multiple sizes for kids and tweens. Please refer to our sizing chart to determine the best fit. Vest: 93% cotton and 7% spandex. Machine wash with like colors. Weights should be removed from vest before washing. Dry on medium setting
For a child who also enjoys the feeling of compression, this interior vest is made with neoprene for a flexible and snug fit. Best of all, the sides and shoulder straps are fully adjustable to get the perfect fit.
The vest is machine washable, and weights can be removed or added to get to the right weight for your child.
The brand offers a full-size chart to help you find the best size for your child, and this vest even comes in teen and adult sizes for older wearers.
The vest’s slim fit and comfortable material allow it to be worn under or over regular clothes. It’s easy to see why many occupational therapists highly recommend this vest.
#3: Harkla Weighted Compression Vest
- HELPS CHILDREN FEEL SECURE AND FOCUSED: If your child has autism or sensory processing disorder, this weighted vest for kids is right for your family. This autism compression shirt for kids makes the perfect partner for when your little one is feeling overloaded. Watch your child relax and find focus in this sensory pressure vest.
- CALMING INPUT FOR SENSORY PROCESSING DISORDER: This weighted vest kids is perfect for those seeking deep pressure sensory stimuli. Children with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder will benefit from the weighted compression vest.
- COMFORTABLE, BREATHABLE, AND DURABLE: Made out of soft neoprene and breathable mesh, the weighted compression vest for children is made to last and can be worn comfortably without getting too hot. Easy to adjust sensory shirt with velcro and has pockets for added weights (6 weights for a total of 2 pounds of weight come included with purchase: 4, ¼ lb & 2, ½ lb). 3 sizes, fully adjustable for a great fit. Make sure to use our sizing guide to the left and measure your child before buying!
- GREAT FOR THE CLASSROOM OR DURING TRAVEL: This weighted vest for kids with autism is completely portable. Add it to your child’s school sensory integration products and bring it on car rides to improve travel for your little sensory seeker.
- 1% OF SALES GO TO THE UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON AUTISM CENTER: A portion of every Harkla order goes to support Autism research. That means your purchase of our kids compression vest gives back. As a USA company, were ready and able to help!
As another compression option from a different brand, this vest offers a slightly different take on the design.
Additional mesh in the front and back of the vest helps your child to stay cool, while six weights offer up to two pounds of deep pressure with the ability to add more.
Like the Fun and Function vest, this garment is made with neoprene and offers adjustable Velcro sides and shoulders. However, this vest comes in only three sizes and maxes out at around the age of 10.
Spot cleaning is recommended, but the vest can be gently machine washed in a pinch. We love this weighted compression vest’s ease of use, comfort, and fit.
#4: ZooVaa Weighted Sensory Vest for Kids
- STYLISH – Unlike traditional, bulky vests, the ZooVaa child size vest is stylish and designed with a denim style exterior. Convenient zipper makes putting on or off easy. Great for school or special occasions.
- REMOVABLE WEIGHTS – The compression vest comes with 4 (1/4 LB) removable weights for the back and 2 (1/2 LB) removable weights for back. Vest is machine washable.
- HIGH QUALITY MATERIAL –Made from 100% cotton for a comfortable, yet stylish design. Navy Interior is made of plush, soft micro-fibers. Elastic sides stretch to form to your child’s size.
- COZY COMPRESSION – This pressure vest is a unique tool that allows the child to feel deep pressure across the torso and back, simulating a warm hug
- VELCRO SECURITY –Compression vest features velcro flaps over the weighted pockets to help prevent weights from coming out easily. Dont ever worry about your child losing the weights!
This vest comes in 3 stylish color options and even a denim option. To the outside observer, the ZooVaa child vest is not identifiable as a weighted vest, which many families prefer.
This vest features additional Velcro flaps to secure the weighted pockets in place. Stretch elastic sides and functional front pockets make this vest unique and comfortable for everyday use.
The denim vest even features a comfortable hoodie! Each vest comes with 2 or 3 lbs of weight, can be adjusted to add more weight, and zips or buttons up for those cold winter days.
If you’re looking for a weighted vest (or 2) that matches your child’s wardrobe – this product line is it.
#5: Special Supplies Sensory Compression Vest
- Customizable Weighted Feel – Every child needs something different which is why these sensory weighted vests feature front and back pockets that let you add or remove the ½ or ¼ lb. sand bags to support their individual needs. (Sizes: Large, Meduim and Small have 2 pockets in the front and 4 in the back - Sizes: X-Small and XX-Small have 2 pockets in the front and 2 in the back)
- Soft, Breathable, and Supportive – Designed to wrap comfortably over the shoulders and around the midsection our weighted vest for kids lets them move, play, and experience life with natural mobility while staying cool and relaxed on the go.
- Home, Travel, and Classroom Use – Our versatile sensory weighted vest can be worn wherever and whenever your child needs to calm down or feel more in control, including on long car rides, in class with friends or teachers, or out running errands.
- Supporting Kids of All Sizes – Special Supplies sensory compression vests come in five versatile sizes to fit your growing child including XX-Small, X-Small, Small, Medium, and Large. All in a gender-neutral Navy for boys or girls.
- Calming, Therapeutic Sensory Vest – This compression vest for kids with sensory issues helps relieve stress, anxiety, and overwhelming emotions caused by ADHD or autism, so your child can feel more focused, calm, and relaxed around others.
As an alternative to weighted vests, this popular vest offers consistent compression for the same deep pressure without the added weight.
This vest is another great option for those needing larger vest sizes, even up to adult sizes. It comes in 5 colors and five different sizes.
The flexible neoprene material allows this vest to be worn under or over clothing while still being comfortable and easy to use.
2 side and two shoulder closures allow for a customized fit. We found it to be comfortable, easy to use, and easy to get the right fit.
#6: Special Supplies Weighted Sensory Compression Vest
- Customizable Weighted Feel – Every child needs something different which is why these sensory weighted vests feature front and back pockets that let you add or remove the ½ or ¼ lb. sand bags to support their individual needs. (Sizes: Large, Meduim and Small have 2 pockets in the front and 4 in the back - Sizes: X-Small and XX-Small have 2 pockets in the front and 2 in the back)
- Soft, Breathable, and Supportive – Designed to wrap comfortably over the shoulders and around the midsection our weighted vest for kids lets them move, play, and experience life with natural mobility while staying cool and relaxed on the go.
- Home, Travel, and Classroom Use – Our versatile sensory weighted vest can be worn wherever and whenever your child needs to calm down or feel more in control, including on long car rides, in class with friends or teachers, or out running errands.
- Supporting Kids of All Sizes – Special Supplies sensory compression vests come in five versatile sizes to fit your growing child including XX-Small, X-Small, Small, Medium, and Large. All in a gender-neutral Navy for boys or girls.
- Calming, Therapeutic Sensory Vest – This compression vest for kids with sensory issues helps relieve stress, anxiety, and overwhelming emotions caused by ADHD or autism, so your child can feel more focused, calm, and relaxed around others.
As the weighted version of the previous item, this vest is a hit with many kids and parents for its functionality and ease of use.
The sides and shoulders of this vest are highly adjustable, and five sizes offer the perfect fit for ASD individuals of all ages.
It can be worn over an undershirt or on top of your child’s regular clothing. We found this vest to be sturdy and durable without being overly bulky.
With the weights removed, it is also machine washable!
#7: Weighted Compression Vest for Children (Ages 2 to 4) by Harkla
- HELPS CHILDREN FEEL SECURE & FOCUSED: If your child has autism or sensory processing disorder, this weighted vest for kids is right for your family. This autism compression shirt for kids makes the perfect partner for when your little one is feeling overloaded. Watch your child relax and find focus in this sensory pressure vest this back to school season.
- CALMING INPUT FOR SENSORY PROCESSING DISORDER: This weighted vest kids is perfect for those seeking deep pressure sensory stimuli. Children with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder will benefit from the weighted compression vest.
- COMFORTABLE, BREATHABLE, AND DURABLE: Made out of soft neoprene and breathable mesh, the weighted compression vest for children is made to last and can be worn comfortably without getting too hot. Easy to adjust sensory shirt with velcro and has pockets for added weights (6 weights for a total of 2 pounds of weight come included with purchase: 4, ¼ lb & 2, ½ lb). 3 sizes, fully adjustable for a great fit. Make sure to use our sizing guide to the left and measure your child before buying!
- GREAT FOR THE CLASSROOM OR DURING TRAVEL: This weighted vest for kids with autism is completely portable. Add it to your child’s school sensory integration products and bring it on car rides to improve travel for your little sensory seeker.
- 1% OF SALES GO TO THE UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON AUTISM CENTER: A portion of every Harkla order goes to support Autism research. That means your purchase of our kids compression vest gives back. As a USA company, were ready and able to help!
This fun vest may be a hit with otherwise-reluctant wearers. Made from breathable and lightweight cotton, this safari-style vest offers plenty of exterior pockets for fidget items or cold hands.
Two pounds of weight are included with the ability to add more by purchasing additional weights. Six interior torso pockets allow for the even distribution of weight.
The vest is machine washable and zips up for added warmth and comfort.
#8: UrbanRed Weighted Vest for Kids
- HELPS CHILDREN FEEL SECURE & FOCUSED: If your child has autism or sensory processing disorder, this weighted vest for kids is right for your family. This autism compression shirt for kids makes the perfect partner for when your little one is feeling overloaded. Watch your child relax and find focus in this sensory pressure vest this back to school season.
- CALMING INPUT FOR SENSORY PROCESSING DISORDER: This weighted vest kids is perfect for those seeking deep pressure sensory stimuli. Children with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder will benefit from the weighted compression vest.
- COMFORTABLE, BREATHABLE, AND DURABLE: Made out of soft neoprene and breathable mesh, the weighted compression vest for children is made to last and can be worn comfortably without getting too hot. Easy to adjust sensory shirt with velcro and has pockets for added weights (6 weights for a total of 2 pounds of weight come included with purchase: 4, ¼ lb & 2, ½ lb). 3 sizes, fully adjustable for a great fit. Make sure to use our sizing guide to the left and measure your child before buying!
- GREAT FOR THE CLASSROOM OR DURING TRAVEL: This weighted vest for kids with autism is completely portable. Add it to your child’s school sensory integration products and bring it on car rides to improve travel for your little sensory seeker.
- 1% OF SALES GO TO THE UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON AUTISM CENTER: A portion of every Harkla order goes to support Autism research. That means your purchase of our kids compression vest gives back. As a USA company, were ready and able to help!
This vest is as durable as it is affordable. Breathable mesh windows are located on this vest’s front, back, and sides to allow for better comfort and airflow.
The vest’s neoprene material offers a snug and cozy fit that is durable enough to stand the test of time. Adjustable Velcro side and shoulder straps and the ability to adjust the weights inside allow for the perfect fit.
The vest is machine washable on gentle.
#9: Fun and Function’s Weighted Fleece Zippered Vest
- ITS WARM, WEIGHTED, AND WORKS WONDERS: Provide your child with calming weight without compromising on style. Fun and Function’s Weighted Fleece Vest looks like a regular winter vest but features internal pockets which hold calming, grounding weight. Your child can go to school, the clinic, or for a playdate wearing his calming vest without anyone knowing his secret!
- HELP YOUR CHILD FEEL SECURE: In stressful situations or during transitions, the Weighted Fleece Vest can help children feel safe & secure. Wear the vest while taking tests or while doing homework to help increase focus; wear to the clinic for calming weight during occupational therapy exercises; and bring on car rides or on trips to encourage easier transitions
- WARM, CUDDLY, COMFY: The Weighted Fleece Vest fits comfortably over clothing so kids can feel comfortable and look good while getting the sensory input they need. This sensory vest was made with your kids comfort and convenience in mind; it features two large front pockets - the perfect spot for their fidgets and other supplies. It also features a convenient front zipper for easy on and off. The soft, fleece material offers calming tactile input
- WEIGHTS & MORE: Fun and Function’s Weighted Fleece vests come in multiple sizes for kids and it fits easily over clothing. Weights are safely positioned in the vest’s internal pockets and can be added or removed as needed. Weights should be carefully and gradually adjusted for each persons needs (10% of total body weight is a common standard. The total should never exceed 10-15% of total body weight). Use with guidance from a therapist
- DETAILS: Please refer to our sizing chart to determine the best fit. Color: Navy blue fleece. Includes 2 Ibs of weight: Four ¼ Ib weights and two ½ Ib weights. Additional weights can be purchased separately. Vest: 100% polyester. Remove weights before washing. Machine wash. Air dry
This soft and cozy fleece vest is the perfect option for those in colder climates or looking for a vest for the winter months.
The front zipper closure and real front pockets will allow your child to blend in with their peers, while the navy blue color is gender-neutral and discreet.
The range of this vest is especially impressive, as it comes in 5 sizes covering approximately ages 2 to 15. As with the other weighted garments on this list, 2 lbs of weights are included, and more can be added to the six interior pockets.
The vest is made of 100% polyester and is machine washable on the cold water setting.
#10: Fun and Function’s Stretch Denim Weighted Vest
- A WEIGHTED VEST FOR THE FASHION CONSCIOUS: Fun and Function’s Stretch Denim Weighted Vest was designed with your child’s needs – and his wardrobe - in mind. Our adjustable vest fits snugly over clothing so kids can feel comfortable and look good while getting the sensory input they need
- FEELS LIKE A SOOTHING HUG: Putting on the Fun and Function Denim Weighted Vest feels like a cozy hug, perfect for helping kids calm down and focus in stressful situations. The gentle compression & proprioceptive feedback can help kids cope with sensory overload discreetly
- HELP YOUR CHILD FEEL SECURE: In stressful situations or during transitions, the Stretch Denim Weighted Vest can help children feel safe & secure. Wear the vest while taking tests or while doing homework to help increase focus; wear to the clinic for calming pressure during occupational therapy exercises; and bring on car rides or on trips to encourage calming transitions
- COMFORTABLE & ADJUSTABLE: Vests come in multiple sizes ranging from kids to small adults and the vest width is adjustable with a simple hook & loop closure. It features a front zipper making it convenient for easy on and off. Weights are safely positioned in pockets inside the vest and can be added or removed. Weights should be carefully and gradually adjusted for each persons needs (10% of total body weight is a common standard. The total should never exceed 10-15% of total body weight).
- SIZE AND WEIGHT: Please refer to our sizing chart. Color: Black denim. Includes 2 Ibs of weight: Four ¼ Ib weights and two ½ Ib weights. Vest: 93% cotton and 7% polyester. 100% polyester zipper and hook-and-loop closures. To wash, remove weights and adhere all closures. Machine wash. Hang dry
As a great option for teens, this snug-fit denim vest zips in the front for easy access and offers adjustable Velcro sides. Like other vests, this garment features interior pockets for adding and removing weights.
It includes 2 lbs of weights with your purchase but can accommodate up to 10 lbs of weights. Since it is made with 100% cotton, this vest is 100% machine washable once the weights are removed.
Older kids and teens love this discreet, stylish vest!
Wrapping it Up
Weighted vests can be an extremely helpful tool in a holistic sensory integration therapy plan for children on the spectrum or with similar diagnoses.
You may need trial and error to find the right wearing schedule, weight distribution, and vest for your child based on their unique needs.
Although research is currently limited, prior studies and anecdotal evidence seem promising, and there is a low barrier to entry to giving weighted vests a try.
If you have a success story or a specific product recommendation for a weighted vest, let us know your experience in the comments below!
