UF Product Review
by ez

Before filming began for Jump Britain, I managed to pick up a very nasty knee injury (Patella tendonitis) that I couldn't shake.  After seeing specialists I was told that I would be able to carry on with filming as long as I kept everything in check....Plenty of ice, adequate strapping etc.  I was also advised that some good quality rest would be called for once filming had ended, but in order to try and clear it up totally, I was told that specific strengthening exercises would be necessary to build up the muscles around the injured area to alleviate pressure.  As everyone who's been inured will testify, injuries are the biggest headache for anyone involved in Parkour and in some cases are unavoidable.

To cut a long story short, I began rehab training under the guidance of Forrest, the same person responsible for nursing Sephane Vigroux back to health after his very serious knee injury, suffered while filming for Nike.  Aside from being a fellow free-runner, Forrest is also a qualified physio and fitness instructor.  At one of the sessions we had he turned up wearing one of the vests pictured above and informed me that it was a 'must have' item.  A few of the top French guys are currently using them for resistance training to benefit their regular practise sessions. Upon trying Forrest's one out, I was completely sold and knew I had to get my hands on one for myself. 

The thing instantly noticeable about them are the super snug fit that they provide.  They are so snug that you can do pretty much every type of move you'd normally do without any rubbing or chaffing at all. In fact, after getting used to the weight you hardly notice the vest at all. The weights in the vests are slotted into easy to get to pockets which means that you can adjust them to suit your needs on any particular training day.  The one I have weighs 10kg which doesn't sound like a lot but trust me, it really makes a difference to how you carry yourself, your posture and your overall sense of balance.  Upon taking it off after about half an hour or so, you feel so light and explosive.....It's unreal.  I've been using mine to walk about, do skipping and to do light Parkour drills.  So far I have no complaints at all.

Here's the official blurb.......

Add weight and intensity to your exercise or sports conditioning program with the Uni-Vest made by IRONWEAR™. Being used by many professional and amateur athletes as well as the general consumer, the Uni-Vests were developed as a total body weight system that allows exercisers to add resistance to their workout safely. The IRONWEAR™ Flex-Metal weight technology (flexible rubber weights) provides the ultimate in comfort and safety when training because Flex-Metal weights fit the contours of the body (no shots or sand) and are placed throughout the body for balance.

One size fits all: The Uni-Vest short and long versions can accommodate chest sizes up to 80 inches in circumference and allows for ample spacing between the rib and hip area on most individuals to enhance uninterrupted movement.
Breathe with comfort: The unique design of the Uni-Vest includes a stretchable neoprene strapping system which secures the vest to your body while allowing the vest to expand and accommodate to your normal breathing pattern during exercise.
The Long & Short of it: Because of different body types, we developed two vests: the Short Uni-Vest IV100AUNI and the Long Uni-Vest IV200AUNI. The short vest comes with 18 adjustable 1/2 lb. weights (10 lbs.) that are placed evenly around the body. Additional weight can be purchased to adjust the vest up to 20 pounds The Long Vest holds 38 individual 1/2 lb. weights (20 lbs.) and can be adjusted to hold up to 76 individual 1/2 lb. weights to make it a 40 lb. vest.

Style - Looks great and fits the contours of your body without causing any problems.  For any skinny people out there who can't be bothered to do weight training, the vest worn under a tee-shirt or hoodie make you look ripped!  So maximum marks there.  4/5

Fit - Fits like a glove and once you get used to the weight, you forget that you are actually wearing it.. 5/5

Weight - Well it's meant to be weighted isn't it?  Can be adjusted to suit each training session by adding or taking out the weights to or from concealed pockets in the vest. 5/5

Durability - Fully washable and made from tough material. Early impressions show that they should stand the test of time. 4/5

Value - This is the only stumbling block.  The heavier ones cost about £100 (GB Pounds) which isn't cheap.  The lighter version costs about £60 (GB Pounds).  If you have money to burn or take your training very seriously, purchasing one of these would probably be viewed as an investment.  However, these vests aren't essential items to improve your Parkour, so it's simply down to individual choice. 3/5

Overall - I've been using mine non-stop and am thoroughly impressed with it.  As mentioned above, they aren't 'essential' items but I'm confident that they compliment regular training.  If you can get over the high price tag, give these a look for sure.  4/5