For fitness enthusiasts seeking the best weighted vest for high dynamic workouts and bodyweight exercises, the MTN OPS Arena Weighted Vest/Plate Carrier stands out as a top-tier choice. With its low-profile design, unique construction, and exceptional versatility, this gear elevates the workout capacity to new heights. This detailed review will explore its features, including internal foam inserts, shoulder pads, convenient sizing, accessory mounting, and compatibility with Rogue Cast Weight Plates, shedding light on why it is considered one of the most durable and best-value plate carriers on the market.
MTN OPS Arena Weighted Vest/ Plate Carrier
Designed to take your training to the next level. Perfect for increasing your workout capacity in high dynamic workouts in the gym and at home or to help build your capacity while hiking in the mountains. The Mtn Ops Weight Plate Carrier offers increased flexibility and mobility in a lightweight, low-profile design, it weighs only 1lbs without plates inserted.
Retail: $169.95
■ Low-profile design to reduce friction and rubbing.
■ Designed for Rogue Cast Weight Vest Plates *(NOT INCLUDED)*
■ Ergonomic padded shoulder straps
■ Adjustable stretch cummerbund for an individualized fit
Why is Hunting Gear Deals reviewing a fitness product?
You’re probably wondering why HuntingGearDeals.com would review a fitness product such as the MTN OPS Arena Weighted Vest/Plate Carrier. I’d love to tell you it’s because I’m a fitness freak and I’m looking to take my strength training to the next level, however, that’s not the case. I was looking for a cheap alternative to prepare myself for future elk-hunting trips in the mountains. I’ve seen others throw a bunch of weights in their hunting pack, only to wear out their pack in the process.
Features of the MTN OPS Arena Weighted Vest/Plate Carrier
The MTN OPS Arena Weighted Vest/Plate Carrier excels in performance and functionality, catering to the needs of high-intensity strength training and bodyweight workouts. Let’s delve deeper into its key features:
- Unique Design and Versatility: The vest’s unique design, coupled with the micro MOLLE webbing, offers unparalleled versatility for accessory mounting. It allows for the attachment of pouches, water bottle holders, or even a small first aid kit, enabling personalized customization based on individual requirements.
- Rogue Cast Weight Plates Compatibility: The compatibility with Rogue Cast Weight Plates is a remarkable advantage. These plates are renowned for their durability and diverse weight options, allowing users to customize the overall weight of the vest to match their specific training goals. This compatibility ensures optimal performance and adaptability.
- Comfort and Adjustability: The inclusion of shoulder pads and adjustable shoulder straps sets this vest apart in terms of comfort. The shoulder pads distribute weight evenly, reducing pressure on the shoulders, while the adjustable straps enable users to achieve a snug fit, preventing unwanted movement during intense workouts.
- Durability and Washing Machine Compatibility: Constructed with high-strength d nylon laminate, this vest withstands the toughest workouts and remains intact over time. Additionally, the hydrophobic laminate ensures moisture resistance, making it convenient to clean in a washing machine without compromising its performance or longevity.
Crafted with precision, the MTN OPS Arena Weighted Vest/Plate Carrier boasts a low-profile design, combining a high-strength d nylon laminate with hydrophobic properties for enhanced durability. The vest incorporates internal foam inserts, ensuring optimal comfort during dynamic workouts. Its adjustable shoulder straps and dynamic shoulder straps guarantee a secure fit, allowing for unrestricted movement. The gear features micro MOLLE webbing, enabling the personal configuration of additional pouches for convenient storage and quick access to essential items.
Should you train with a weighted pack or a weighted vest before your next hunt in the mountains?
High-end hunting backpacks aren’t cheap, so finding an alternative weight-training device will help me get in shape and ensure that I don’t tear my backpack up in the process. With this weighted vest, I’m able to add up to 40 pounds of weight and hit the trail. Some serious CrossFit athletes are performing high-intensity workouts with weighted vests. But that wasn’t my goal. I simply wanted to add weight to my hikes and prepare my legs for chasing elk or mule deer in the mountains.
In the past, I’ve always thrown a bag of corn on a frame pack and it helps but it isn’t nearly as comfortable as the weighted vest. A loaded frame pack is big and bulky and doesn’t hold up as long as this vest either. The biggest thing to remember when training is that the distribution of weight will differ between a backpack in and a plate carrier. The plate carrier has an even balance of weight, with a plate on the chest and the back. Also, the further the weight is away from your body, the harder it is to manage. For me, this is the safest route for a weighted hike.
Durability: MTN OPS Arena Weighted Vest/Plate Carrier
For those wondering how durable is the MTN OPS Arena Weighted Vest/Plate Carrier, I have no complaints. As soon as it arrived, I threw in two 20-pound Rogue Fitness Plates and everything fit tight. So far, I haven’t damaged it or seen any excessive wear from use. I would caution you to be careful in the way you handle it when taking it on and off, as well as how you store and transport the weighted vest. If you allow it to drop to the floor, drag it on the concrete, or slide around in the bed of your truck, it’s not going to last. For me, I’m carefully taking it on and off and have a designated storage location for it in my weight room.
For an added bonus, try completing the MURPH Challenge in a 20-pound MTN OPS Arena Weighted Vest/Plate Carrier.
- 1 Mile Run
- 100 Pull Ups
- 200 Push Ups
- 300 Squats
- 1 Mile Run
Comfort: MTN OPS Arena Weighted Vest/Plate Carrier
My favorite part of this plate carrier from MTN OPS is how comfortable it is to wear while working out. Trying to work out with a weighted backpack is miserable, but implementing a weighted vest makes it a lot more enjoyable. The padded shoulder straps secure the plates to my core and the adjustable stretch cummerbund locks everything in place.
Price and Value
Considering the high-quality construction, compatibility with Rogue Cast Weight Plates, and exceptional versatility, the MTN OPS Arena Weighted Vest/Plate Carrier offers excellent value for fitness enthusiasts seeking the best option for bodyweight workouts and strength training. It provides the durability, comfort, and performance needed to maximize training potential.
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Summary: MTN OPS Arena Weighted Vest/Plate Carrier Review
For those seeking a top-tier weighted vest and plate carrier, the MTN OPS Arena Weighted Vest/Plate Carrier stands as an unrivaled choice. With its unique design, durability, and compatibility with Rogue Cast Weight Plates, it surpasses expectations in terms of performance, comfort, and functionality. Although availability in convenient sizes can be limited, and weight plates must be purchased separately, these minor considerations pale in comparison to the overall value this gear offers. Elevate your workouts and unleash your full potential with this high-quality weighted vest from MTN OPS.
Ready to buy? You can buy the Arena Weighted Vest/Plate Carrier direction from MTN OPS. Be sure to use the Hunting Gear Deals EXCLUSIVE coupon code to save an additional 20% off at checkout.
Coupon Code: HUNTGEAR20
Thanks for taking the time to read my review. Also, thank you to Plano for supplying this awesome gun case to accompany me on future hunting adventures! Hunting Gear Deals is funded by affiliate commissions. We may receive a small commission when you buy from our partners using the links provided. There is no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting us by using our links when making your purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions: MTN OPS Arena Weighted Vest / Plate Carrier
- What is the purpose of the MTN OPS Arena Weighted Vest / Plate Carrier?
- A weighted vest is only for the use of adding additional weights to your fitness regime. Fitness enthusiasts can utilize and weighted vest for increased resistance during workouts. Hunters find value in adding weights to their hikes while preparing for upcoming hunts in the mountains, elk hunting especially.
- What is the maximum weight capacity of the vest?
- Forty pounds is typically the most weight you’ll put in a weight carrier, distributed with a 20-pound Rogue plate on the chest and a 20-pound Rogue Plate on the back.
- Can the weight be adjusted or customized?
- Yes, Rogue plates come in a variety of sizes and are not sold by MTN OPS and are not included.
- How does the vest fit? Is it adjustable for different body sizes?
- Adjustable fit for a variety of body types. Tyler (pictured in the review) is much slimmer and more muscular than I am. With a little finesse, the vest can be adjusted for most body types.
- Is the MTN OPS Arena Weighted Vest / Plate Carrier comfortable to wear during workouts?
- Personal opinion of the reviewer – YES! I was shocked how comfortable it was after putting in a good workout.
- Does the vest come with removable weight plates?
- No, weights are sold separately by Rogue Fitness
- Are the weight plates included with the vest or sold separately?
- Sold separately
- Can the MTN OPS Arena Weighted Vest / Plate Carrier be used for various exercises and activities?
- Of course! Use your imagination. I utilize it for hiking, running, pull-ups, tricep dips, box jumps, and more!
- Is the vest suitable for both men and women?
- Yes
- Can the vest be used for cardio exercises, strength training, or both?
- You can utilize the vest for both cardio and strength training.
- Are there any specific cleaning or maintenance instructions for the vest?
- To clean the vest, I simply take the plates out and throw it in the washer. I do not dry the vest in the dryer, instead, I allow it to air dry.
- Does the vest restrict movement or flexibility during workouts?
- No more than any other vest would. It’s designed not to prohibit your range of motion.
- Are there any safety features or considerations to keep in mind while using the MTN OPS Arena Weighted Vest / Plate Carrier?
- The Arena Weighted Vest is not designed to be utilized as body armor.
- Consult with your doctor before making lifestyle changes. (increased exercise for example)
- Ensure the chest straps are secured

AUTHOR BIO
Hi, I’m Camron the owner of Hunting Gear Deals. I’m an avid bowhunter with a knack for finding good deals on hunting gear and love to help you save money on hunting gear. I’m also the owner of the popular Bucks, Bulls, & Bears email newsletter that’s built to educate and entertain hunters. If you haven’t subscribed, you’re missing out! Last but not least, I’m proud to say that I work for Whitetail Properties as a Land Specialist in Ohio. If you’re in the market for hunting property, shoot me an email and I’d love to help you find your dream property.
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