Rab Veil 12L Lightweight Running Vest: first impressions 

There's a certain genius to this hydration pack from British outdoor brand Rab in that it's built to hold all your gear for long adventures and races, yet it works just as well when all you're carrying is a running jacket and some water.

What Rab calls the 'Mono Mesh Chassis' framework turns out to provide a really neat (and adjustable) fit that's so comfortable you forget you're wearing it, even when it's loaded up.

Speaking of loading up, you can certainly do that with ease here thanks to 12 pockets where you can stash two soft water bottles (included), extra layers, your phone, snacks, and whatever else you need to get the miles in and stay safe. Some of the pockets on the shoulder straps aren't as useful once you're carrying full bottles, but we've never run out of spaces to sneak in our gear.

In addition to all the small pockets, the main compartment is reasonably roomy and can handle a hydration bladder or lightweight jacket, rain pants, hat and gloves if you're getting up high. It's accessed via a U-shaped zip, which makes it easy to reach your gear, but be warned that gear in the top pocket does tend to fall out when you unzip the main pocket.

There are also pole attachments that provide a couple of different options for carrying running poles horizontally on your back or vertically on your front.

The ripstop fabric is tough, but also light and breathable, and it never seems to hang onto moisture, no matter how wet the weather or how sweaty your body, and the added stretch doesn't seem to affect the stability of the pack whatsoever.

The pack comes in three sizes that should work for all but the smallest bodies, and it fastens at the sternum with bungee cord hooks, which are a little fiddly.

The main addition we'd like to see is a waterproof pocket of some kind, to protect electronics in wet weather, and it is quite a pricey pack considering others in the market are the same price with more bells and whistles. But that said, if you need something extremely comfortable, robust, and versatile, this is the pack for you.

Rab Veil 12L Lightweight Running Vest: in the field 

British mountaineering brand Rab has been inching into the trail running scene over the past couple of years and this summer I've been trail running in a full Rab kit, including the Talus 2-in-1 shorts and this vest. That means I've put in around 100 miles wearing this vest, from hour-long lunchbreak jaunts in the hills near my home to longer days out in the Lake District and the Swiss Alps.

Here’s how it performed:

Sizing and fit

Sensibly, this vest comes in three sizes, and the stretchy material and bungee cord adjustability make it a functional unisex design.

I received a small size to test, and that should be perfect for me as I have a small build and am a small-chested woman. I do have to pull the bungee cords at the sternum as tight as they will go to properly secure this vest, so if you're an XS or smaller, I think this may not work for you. For the vast majority of bodies, however, I think you can find a size that works for you.

Once I have it secured, it fits neatly so I have the impression of wearing my kit rather than carrying it, and it sems to fit well whether I've loaded it up with extra layers, water, my phone, charger and snacks or I'm just bringing along my running jacket and sunglasses (yes, you need both in Scotland at all times). The kit stays stable, so there's just no bouncing around while I run.

Comfort and breathability

For me, the litmus test of comfort is whether I notice I'm wearing something, and I'm pleased to report that I can wear this pack all day and totally forget about it. It's one of the lightest hydration packs we've tested and doesn't rub or chafe anywhere, at least when I'm running over a few hours (though I can't speak to hundred-mile races).

Unusually, I've had lots of opportunities to test this in warm weather since we've had plenty of it this year, and while obviously I do get sweaty, this doesn't make me any sweatier than when I run without it. The mesh fabric seems to breathe really well and, crucially, it doesn't hold onto moisture, so it doesn't get heavy or uncomfortable in heavy rain or sweaty conditions.

Storage and hydration

So far, I've counted 12 pockets on this pack, though there may be more I've yet to uncover. There's the main compartment where you'd keep a bladder if you use one, and I can just manage to squeeze my first aid kit, jacket, rain pants, hat and gloves here. Above that is a smaller unzipped top pocket with an even smaller zipped pocket inside, where I tend to keep my car key and credit card for safety.

The pack comes with two soft bottles that fit into two harness pockets, and it's reasonably easy to pull these out while I'm on the move and have a chug, then get them back in. There are zipped pockets on top of these, which are easily big enough for any phone, although they're a little harder to use if you've got two full bottles of water. Never mind, though, because there are more pockets behind them and underarm mesh pockets which work for gels and snacks, and I tend to use the pockets on my Talus 2-in-1 shorts for my phone anyway.

I use running poles a lot, and when I'm not using them, I just carry them in one hand, but there are various options for attaching your poles for longer adventures; however, there's no pole quiver.

The main pocket that I think is missing is a waterproof pocket for my phone which would help protect it in wet weather.

Value

This hydration pack exceeds expectations when it comes to storage and comfort, and that goes a long way. It's also quite robust, and while the bungee cord fastenings are a little fiddly, I'm the first to admit that they're more durable than clip fastenings.

However, it's the same price as my Camelback Apex Pro, which has a waterproof pocket and a RECCO reflector. I'm not saying it's not worth the price, as it really is a versatile pack, but be aware that you could get more for the same price.

Also consider

Comparison table

• How Advnture tests products

• Like all good things, this deal has ended, but don't worry, you'll be the first to know if we spot any more great deals on running gear. You can browse all our deals here.

If you're moving over long distances, a running vest that can handle water, snacks, and extra layers without slowing you down is key. Right now, you can pick up the fully adjustable CamelBak Zephyr Pro Hydration Vest for just $79.73 at REI. That's a massive 50% discount on this hydration vest that ensures you'll have everything you need for whatever challenge lies ahead.

Advnture contributor Claire Maxted took this vest out on the trail and called it "wonderfully designed" and suitable for larger bodies with a lot of great features. At 8.5oz, it’s light for its 11L capacity, and the easy-to-use side adjustment straps mean it’s one-size-fits-all.

The 3D mesh venting down the back and under the shoulder straps is specifically designed for the different sweat areas of male and female bodies, based on CamelBak’s own body mapping research.

Claire did wish it had more pockets, but the large, zipped back compartment is easily large enough for spare clothes, a first aid kit and food. On the outside of the back compartment are two stretch pockets, one across the middle and one at the base that will fit a lightweight waterproof jacket or rain pants, with silicone grippers at the edges of each pocket so kit doesn’t slide out. At the front is a water-resistant pocket that is ideal for electrolyte and salt tablets, jelly babies and other small sweet snacks.

This deal applies to the Pigeon/Blue Surf colorway, but hurry, because the sale ends today on August 4.

Not in the US? Scroll down to the bottom of this article for today's best deals on the CamelBak Zephyr Pro Hydration Vest where you are.

The pack is compatible with the two 500ml soft bottles that it comes with, or a hydration bladder (not included). Finally there’s an included trekking pole quiver secured by poppers diagonally behind the pack.

If you're not in the US, here are today's best deals on the CamelBak Zephyr Pro Hydration Vest where you are:

• The best hydration packs: on-the-go refuelling for your runs
• The best hydration bladders: water storage for adventures

CamelBak founder Michael Eidson invented the concept of rear-mounted hydration packs (small backpacks containing a water reservoir or bladder, with an over-the-shoulder drinking hose, which prioritize hydration over everything else), and the US brand remains synonymous with these now popular products, to the extent that many people use CamelBak to generically refer to all such items. But since the concept was launched in the late 1980s, multiple brands have picked up the idea and run with it, and CamelBak face fierce competition from other players, including premier backpack brands like Osprey, who are hot on their heels.

Eidson’s original design was intended for mountain bikers, but CamelBak (and everyone else) now produce hydration packs for trail runners, hikers, fastpackers and paddlers as well as pedalers. The Dart is styled as a running vest, and I was looking forward to testing it on the trails to see whether CamelBak are still leading the field with innovative and intelligent solutions to the ever-pressing problem of how to haul heavy H₂O while trying to stay fast and nimble.

Compatibility

With dry carry capacity of just 0.5L (when used with the reservoir, as intended), the Dart is most definitely designed as a running vest rather than a pack with hydration capacity, so you need to bear this firmly in mind when assessing whether it’s the right product for you.

If you’re weighing up whether to go for a hydration pack or a running vest, then you need to consider how much other kit you will want or need to carry with you while running. If all you really require is water, plus a few running gels and energy bars, your phone (or a satellite communication device) a small running headlamp, a compass and perhaps a very lightweight running jacket, thin gloves, and/or a hat, cap or sun visor or running sunglasses, then you can probably get away with a vest (the design of which will always be more minimalist). If you think you will need bulkier items – such as extra base layers, a waterproof shell jacket and lightweight rain pants, and a first-aid kit, as specified by many ultra-running races and adventure events – then you will need a more capacious running pack.

Design and materials

There are, apparently, some recycled materials used in the construction of the Dart, but CamelBak doesn’t specify where or how much. One of the things I love about CamelBak, however, is that its products, being lazer-focused on hydration, always have a premium-quality bladder included (with many other brands you have to buy these as an extra, which is annoying). The Dart comes with an excellent 1.5L BPA/BPS/BPF-free polyurethane CamelBak Crux reservoir (which has a stand-alone price of $35/£35 if you were to buy it separately). The Crux boasts a self-sealing ‘Big Bite’ valve, so you don’t need to flip a lever to allow the water to flow (although it does also have a leak-proof on-off valve for extra insurance). It also features a double-sided hang hook, wide-mouth easy fill opening with a leak-proof cap and a fill handle, plus measurements on the side (in imperial and metric). Unlike most Crux Reservoirs, this one (my version at least) doesn’t seem to have a Quick Link easy release system for removing the hose from the bladder (useful for cleaning purposes), even though the attached label claims it does.

The reservoir slides into a dedicated pouch within the main compartment of the pack (which zips shut), and is designed to be hung from a hoop to keep it in position. The hose can be fed through portals on either shoulder, and it then passes through reflective loops on the harness, to keep it roughly in place, and there’s also a plastic clip (but only on the left side). The main compartment has a second section, but storage space is very limited when the bladder is full. On the outside there’s a small zipped pocket, which can be used to store energy bars and gels.

The back panel on the Dart is constructed from mesh, backed by honeycomb-shaped foam, to allow air to flow between the pack and your back. The use of this mesh continues across the harness to make it all as breathable as possible. The ‘Command Centre’, as CamelBak calls the front section of the Dart, features a pouch that can accommodate a 500ml (20oz) soft flask-style running water bottle (not supplied) on one side, and a large pocket with a zip, which can take most phones, and/or several energy bars and gels (there’s a small sub-pouch within it, for keys or money/credit card).

The harness can be adjusted and tightened via the side straps, and there are two sternum straps that can be easily moved up and down on sliders to achieve the optimum fit, something that is especially important on a unisex hydration pack. If you have lightweight running poles or trekking poles, these can be attached to the rear of the vest.

On the trails

I have been testing the CamelBak Dart hydration vest while training for and competing in my local event, The Grizzly, a 20-mile mixed terrain race across beaches, hilltops, fields, woodlands and bogs. In my opinion, the Dart has been designed exactly for training runs of around 10 to 20 miles, and events of about this length, when you don’t need to carry too much kit, just some energy bars, gels and a thin extra layer (running jacket) in case something goes wrong.

The Grizzly is a cup-free race, so while there are a few water stations you need to either carry your own liquids or a least a container to drink from. Having just discovered I’m a very salty sweater, I did a bit of both, with the reservoir loaded with an electrolyte mix and a soft flask in the front of the harness that I could easily access and refill at checkpoints. This system worked perfectly for the race, but had I needed to refill the main bladder in a rush, it would have been very easy, thanks to the reservoir’s wide mouth, the ergonomic handle and quick-twist closure system.

Conditions were chilly during training, but the Dart is easy to adjust so I could layer up when necessary and still achieve the tight fit you expect from a running vest. On race day it was really quite hot (for spring), but I found the mesh back panel and harness allowed a good amount of airflow, and I didn’t feel uncomfortable or suffer from an overly sweaty back. The sternum straps do their job nicely and they kept the vest tight to my body during an event that involved running at pace down lumpy and bumpy trails, and negotiating everything from thigh-deep swamps to pebble beaches and cliff climbs. In fact, the overall comfort levels of the Dart have been excellent, during training and racing.

My main criticism of the Dart is with its miserly dry carry capacity. The front pockets on the Command Center are nice and accommodating (I can get my phone and a couple of gels or small bars in the left pocket, and either a 500ml soft flask or a pair of running sunglasses and some more sustenance in the right breast pouch), but when running with the reservoir full (with 1.5L of liquid), it really is hard to fit anything else in the back compartments at all. Even a super svelte running jacket only just fits in, and it feels as though you’re putting the zip under stress to get it shut. A tiny bit more space, or the addition of some external bungees would make this a much more versatile vest – but then it is marketed as a minimalist piece of kit, so I guess that’s what you should expect.

It is possible to carry lightweight running or trekking poles on the CamelBak Dart, by using the bungee loops on the rear, but this is pretty cumbersome on such a small volume pack. Also, while there are a couple of reflective loops, they are all on the harness, so there is nothing on the back of the pack to alert vehicles to your presence when running on roads or lanes after dark. Lastly, unlike on some running vests, there is no whistle incorporated into the design of the Dart, which is perhaps not so surprising, since this vest isn’t really designed for ultra-length events (when whistles often form part of the mandatory kit list).

Also consider

Comparison table

Pennsylvania-based brand Nathan Sports has being producing solidly reliable adventure-orientated safety and hydration gear for decades, with micro-adjustments making the kit better with each iteration. This pack is the perfect example of that process of evolution, tipping the scales at just 308g/10.9oz (without the bladder), a full 15% lighter than the original. When you’re hauling heavy water along a trail, regardless of whether you’re walking or running, the last thing you need is additional weight being added by the pack itself, so this svelte version of an already excellent hydro pack is a welcome arrival… so long as the functionality of the model hasn’t been downgraded. For the last couple of months I have been wearing the TrailMix 2.0 while hiking and running along a range of tracks to see how it compares to previous edition and the very best hydration packs around, including those produced by market leaders CamelBak and Osprey.

Design and materials

Offering several ways to carry fluids in an easily accessible hands-free fashion while you’re on the move, the TrailMix 2.0 is hydration pack first and foremost, and backpack second, although it does also deliver an impressive amount of dry storage space. It has a lightweight build, with the body facing parts of the pack (the back panel and shoulder straps) made with mesh stretched over honeycomb shaped foam, to make it breathable, and the main compartments constructed from a weatherproof synthetic material, to keep the contents dry in all but the worst conditions.

There are two sternum straps on the unisex TrailMix 2.0, which can very quickly and easily be moved up and down to achieve the optimum fit – something that is especially important on a unisex hydration pack. On the front of the harness, around chest level, there are four generously sized pouches that can be used to securely carry various things, from your mobile phone or a satellite communication device to running gels and energy bars. The topmost and deepest of these pouches on either side have been deliberately sized to accommodate two small water bottles (specifically a pair of 500ml/20oz soft-sided easy-sip flasks).

Sadly, this model doesn’t include such flasks, but unlike some hydration packs and vests, the TrailMix 2.0 does come complete with a good quality water bladder, with a liquid capacity of 1500ml (just over 50 fl oz), and a wide slide-top opening. This reservoir is housed within a zipped compartment at the rear of the pack, where it’s hung from a Velcro hook, and the hose can be plumbed through portals on either shoulder. The drinking tube then passes through a loop and there’s a single storage clip on one of the sternum straps to keep it from flapping around and getting caught on things as you run. The hose is quite long if you leave it hanging down, so it’s best to loop it across your chest and tuck it neatly through a second loop. The bite valve on the drinking hose is simple but effective, and it hasn’t leaked at all while I’ve been hiking and running.

There is also a larger storage compartment, which shuts like a dry bag, with a roll top and buckles (brilliantly, this can be closed in two different ways, either end to end, or by clipping the ends into corresponding buckles on the side, which enables you to reduce the bulk of the pack depending on how much you’re carrying). On the front of the pack is an expansion pouch (which secures shut with a Velcro flap) and a set of bungee cords, both of which vastly increase the non-liquid carry capacity of the pack. There are also bungee loops on either side for attaching running poles or trekking poles, and the TrailMix features reflective flourishes to improve safety when you’re hiking or running on roads and lanes shared with traffic.

On the trails

I have been using this hydration pack to stay hydrated during longer hikes and also while training for an ultramarathon, and I plan to wear it during an upcoming local mid-distance race, a 20-mile mixed terrain running challenge where the gaps between water stations can be quite long, and supplies have been known to run dry. For all these activities, the Nathan TrailMix 2.0 is perfect, not least because of the versatility it offers.

If you’re happy to cart one medium-sized bladder of water on your back (which I am when hiking), everything you need to hit the trails is here. The included Nathan-branded reservoir is good quality and perfectly sized for most hiking escapades and trail-running adventures. The slide-sealed wide opening is super secure, and the design makes it quick and easy to refill the bladder at race water stations. You can hang the hose over either shoulder, and the clip and loops on the harness enable you to keep it tidy and within reach at all times. But for people who prefer to have their hydration in soft sipper flasks carried on the chest (my favored style when doing longer runs), there are deep harness pockets that cater for this (even if you do have source your flasks separately).

Fit and comfort

I was able to get a good firm fit when using the TrailMix 2.0, so the pack felt comfortable and didn’t flap around and get annoying, even as I gradually emptied the reservoir while running. However, this is a unisex pack, and not everyone might find this to be the case. The sternum straps are easy to adjust, but the slide bar they are mounted on isn’t very long, so there is a limit to how much space you can put between them, and this might be an issue for some people.

On the back of the pack, a highly breathable mesh is stretched across a honeycomb panel, to reduce sweatiness, and this extends right across the harness straps, and I found this to be highly breathable. The side straps are a lot thinner and more basic, but they are simple to adjust so you can get a properly dialed-in fit (although I found it very fiddly to coil up and stash the excess once I’d tightened the straps up).

Carry capacity

One of the things I love about this pack is that there are several separate decent-sized compartments, so you can really organize your kit well (and also remove and refill the water bladder without having to unpack any of the rest of the contents).

Playing around with the hydration options this pack offers enables you to carry more kit, if so desired, or to arrange your provisions according to your personal preferences. So, if you dispense with the water bladder and use flasks, you can use the zipped compartment at the back to take more gear – such as extra base layers and even a thin fleece jacket if you’re doing a long run in chilly conditions. There is still space for a few gels in the small front pouches, even if you do take bottles, but if you stick with the bladder, then there is capacity to carry much more (bars, phone, compass) in the harness, where it’s easily accessible.

The expansion pouch and bungee cords on the outward facing part of the pack really increase your carry capacity. The expansion pouch is perfect for storing things like a running jacket, gloves, or a hat, cap or sun visor, while the bungees are ideal for stashing wet weather gear, such as waterproof shell jackets and lightweight rain pants before and after use (for ease of access, and to avoid other garments becoming damp).

It is possible to carry lightweight running or trekking poles on the TrailMix 2.0, by using the bungee loops on the sides, but this is pretty cumbersome on such a small volume pack.

Compatibility

If you’re an ultrarunner and you’re weighing up whether to go for a hydration pack or a running vest, the Nathan TrailMix falls, I reckon, right in the middle of the two. It’s tailored to fit very snuggly to your body, like a vest, with minimal movement during vigorous exercise, and you can use it with a large water bladder and/or a couple of soft running bottles or flasks …and yet, it has a reasonable amount of dry storage space as well (12 liters on the inside, plus whatever you can stuff into the expansion pouch and bungee bit on the back, which is quite a bit). That might not be enough to compete with backpacks used for a fastpacking escapades, unless you’re a mega-minimalist enjoying perfect conditions, but it will easily accommodate all the essential gear required for a single-stage ultramarathon, including extra layers, waterproof shell jacket and trousers, plus a head torch, an emergency bivy sack, tarp or space blanket, some food and a first-aid kit. Unfortunately, though, there is no whistle built into the design of this pack (a shame, since these are often part of the mandatory kit list for long-distance adventure challenges).

Some alternatives

There is a smaller 7L version of the Nathan TrailMix, which is ideal for shorter events and outings. If you’re specifically looking for a body hugging running vest specifically geared towards ultra-distance adventures, check out the Arc’teryx Norvan 7 or the Montane Gecko 12+, both of which come with soft flasks (but no bladder).

The UTMB World Series has announced an exclusive three-year partnership deal with up-and-coming trail running brand Aonijie. The Chinese brand will be the official hydration pack supplier for all UTMB World Series events.

Launched in 2011, Aonijie has made a name for itself in the Asian market with trail running equipment such as running backpacks, waist packs and headlamps. It will launch a dedicated line of UTMB hydration packs as part of the deal, which it says will be designed to withstand the extreme conditions found in the Series' 218 races across the globe.

"Aonijie is a brand on the rise with a deep-rooted passion for trail running," says Céline Prévost, Commercial Director of UTMB Group

"Their technical expertise, commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation, and dedication to making their products accessible align perfectly with the vision of UTMB Group."

We haven't tested Aonijie hydration packs in the field yet, so we can't recommend them, but the brand is known for much more affordable prices than its competitors with good quality construction.

The Aonijie 12L hydration pack retails for $70, less than half what you'll pay for the Salomon ADV Skin 8 or the Camelbak Apex Pro, while its smaller 5L pack is just $53. Trail runners in an ultra running thread on Reddit say the packs stand out for their durability and comfort, even if they miss the mark on some details, such as fewer pockets and difficulty removing water bottles.

"The Salomon vest properly has slightly higher build quality and materials. However given a 100 dollar price difference, I'm not sure it's worth it," says one runner.

The move comes less than a month after UTMB announced a partnership with RunMotion Coach, giving runners access to personalized online coaching in 2025. Aonijie joins other partners including title sponsor Hoka, which has supplied the shoes worn by the men's winner for the past two years (that's the Tecton X 3), Suunto watches, Vibram, Buff and Shokz.

• Best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain
• Best running backpacks: for everything you need on the move
• Best running poles: for ultra distance running

Camelbak Apex Pro running vest: first impressions 

Long trail runs and races mean you need to carry a lot of kit, from your running jacket to water, and this hydration pack is built to handle the maximum amount of gear in comfort. The Apex Pro comes in four different sizes with adjustable chest straps and bungee cords to help you easily find the perfect fit.

Pack your extra layers and first aid kit into the roomy zippered main pocket, where you'll also find a mesh pocket to keep smaller items like your hat and running gloves organized and easy to find. If you're on an overnight mission and using soft water bottles, you can use the hydration bladder compartment for extra storage thanks to stretchy mesh panels.

A water-resistant zipped pocket at the top has plenty of room to keep your phone safe. Up front, there are deep stretchy pockets to hold two 500ml soft water bottles (provided) and a plethora of other stretchy and zippered pockets to keep your running gels, sunscreen, sunglasses and headlamp all close to hand and secure.

Plenty of other details abound that make this pack nearly perfect, from a removable running pole quiver to a built-in RECCO reflector to help make you searchable if you run into trouble. Of course, you'll find a key clip, reflective details and a whistle included. Most importantly of all, it makes a comfortable and breathable carry, even when it's loaded.

It's difficult to find much we don't like about this vest, which despite the name is great for any trail runner or speed hiker, not just the pros. That said, it's on the pricey side and at 340 grams, heavier than most we've tested. There's no mention of recycled materials in the construction and for those three reasons, we haven't quite given it full marks but if you're looking for a robust, roomy and reliable running pack, look no further.

Camelbak Apex Pro running vest: in the field 

I've been running with the Apex Pro vest for the last few months on the trails of Scotland. Though I'm not an ultra runner, my adventures do often take me out over a half day and the Scottish weather has meant I need to be prepared with extra layers at practically all times. All in, I've put about 300 km in wearing this vest as we've moved from autumn into winter.

Here's how it performed:

Sizing, fit and comfort

It's clear from the get-go that Camelbak wants trail runners to be able to find the perfect fit with this pack, which comes in four different sizes with plenty of detail available on what each size means. After reading up on the measurements, I went with a small size which would be my usual size in clothing and I'd say it's the right fit, even when I'm wearing extra layers.

Once on, I find it really easy to cinch with the adjustable sternum straps and bungee cords so that it's snug and secure without rubbing or catching anywhere. I'm able to wear it for hours without any discomfort or chafing, and even when it's loaded up I don't really even notice I'm wearing it. I've worn it in mild, cool, cold and frigid weather so I can't say how it feels in hot weather, but so far the mesh backing helps with ventilation and sweat management quite well.

Storage and hydration

This pack has an unbelievable amount of storage, from the large, zipped main compartment to at least eight additional pouches and pockets. I keep finding new pockets inside other pockets, some zipped, one water-resistant to keep electronics safe, and all are stretchy so it can fit a lot of gear. Moreover, the pockets all seem to be deep and secure so I haven't had any issues dropping gear.

We've had some pretty cold weather already this winter and I have no problem stuffing my down running jacket, gloves and hat in it along with water, snacks, phone and even my mini tripod so I could take some photos of it in the field. If you run with poles, there's a pole quiver for stashing them that you can remove if you don't need it.

It is hydration bladder compatible, of course, though you'll need to buy that separately. I don't love the sloshing of a bladder, so I love that it comes with two soft water bottles which are easy to chug from on the go, even if they do have a plasticky taste.

Other features

I'd say this is a feature-rich hydration pack with a built-in RECCO reflector for safety, reflective details, a whistle, key clip and a handy hanging hook so I can keep on the back of my bedroom door for easy grab-and-go.

The whole pack isn't water-resistant, but for gear that you want to keep dry, there's a decent-sized water-resistant pocket that easily fits a phone and any other gadgets.

Weight, quality and value

Thanks to all the added details and zippers, this pack is one of the heavier ones we've tested, but it's still far lighter than any of my smaller daypacks. It's also got a really robust design which means that mine still looks as good as new and it should definitely be able to handle a beating on rough trails.

It is also the priciest hydration pack we've tested, but it has much better capacity and storage than other higher-priced ones such as the Salomon ADV Skin 8 Set W and Inov-8 Race Ultra Pro 5 so in short, you're getting more for your money and if you want a workhorse, you'll get one here.

Camelbak Apex Pro running vest: the bottom line

This is a seriously high-performing running vest where Camelbak seems to have thought of everything, from comfort and fit to storage and safety. Though that means a higher price tag and a few more ounces on the scale, there's simply nothing missing from this pack and if you're planning on long distances, it will handle all of your gear needs. If you need a lot of storage but want a bit of a lighter investment, also check out the inov-8 Ultrapac Pro 2in1.

• How Advnture tests products

Heading out or a winter run? CamelBak wants you to stay hydrated with their range of hydration gear made especially for winter. Designed for all-day use when the temperatures drop, the new StoAway Insulated Reservoir and the SnoBlast 22 Winter Hydration Pack allow for simple water storage and include several features to battle back against tricky winter conditions.

The $30 StoAway Insulated Reservoir weighs 5.6oz / 160g and can hold up to 0.8 gallon / 3L of water at once. Improving on previous reservoirs, the StoAway features CamelBak’s own crux reservoir tech, providing thirsty users with up to 20% more water per sip and an ergonomic handle for easy refilling. Designed for chilly winter runs, reservoir water is insulated by 0.4in / 10mm cell foam, and an insulated tube and bite valve cover. Although it’s currently reduced to $30 in the US, the StoAway Reservoir is only available to UK customers at its full price of £75.

On review earlier this year, we were impressed by CamelBak’s previous 0.4 gallon / 1.5L Crux Reservoir, describing it as a ‘top quality, high performance hydration bladder’, which is easy to fill, clean and drink from.

In addition to CamelBak’s latest reservoir, outdoor lovers are now able to hit the trails with a new winter hydration pack from the Texan outdoor specialists - the SnoBlast 2, which comes with its own 0.5 gallon / 2L winter-ready reservoir for water storage.

Built for extreme conditions, the SnoBlast 22 protects its contents with a thick snow shield outer layer and sleek snowshed back panel which repels snow and keeps it from sticking to its wearer's back.

Aiming to instill confidence on the trails, CamelBak’s SnoBlast 2 prevents water freezing with a range of insulating features. Alongside the aforementioned crux reservoir technology, CamelBak’s latest offering boasts a ‘therminator harness’, which zips drinking tubes into an insulated sleeve in the shoulder strap, protecting its water supply from the elements.

Users can also expect plenty of extra room in the 35.6oz / 1,010g pack, with a large expansion panel and plenty of additional storage compartments.

Available on the CamelBak website, the SnowBlast 22 Winter Hydration Pack is currently reduced to just $60 dollars, and available to UK customers for £120.

• The best hydration bladders 2024: water storage for adventures
• The best winter hiking boots 2024: for unbeatable performance in the cold

It’s hard to find a runner these days who isn’t setting off with a hydration vest. If you thought they were reserved for experienced ultra runners only, you can think again. Whether it’s long distance trails or casual runs closer to home, this handy piece of kit is now the standard for carrying fuel, equipment, and belongings, and they’re a great investment if you’re planning to increase your distance.

For a long time, I was a hydration vest skeptic. A keen trail runner, I didn’t see the point in wearing an extra layer to weigh me down. I’d survived just fine with a phone armband and flexible flask up until now, what else could I possibly need? It wasn’t until I entered a longer trail race that I realized I could really do with some extra fuel and greater agility. I went home and ordered a running vest right away, and now I’m not sure how I could live without it.

The best hydration packs don’t only give you wearable storage but – as the name suggests – they make it easy to hydrate on the go. Whether you’re looking to up your distance, test out some more challenging terrain, or you simply want a more convenient way to hold your phone and keys, there are a multitude of reasons you need a hydration vest. I spoke to some experts for their insights on why this piece of kit should be part of every runner’s arsenal, and here are seven considerations that may well convince you.

Reasons you need a hydration vest

1) They allow you to refuel on the go: adequate hydration and nutrition is essential for longer, more remote runs.

2) They offer convenient storage: having all your equipment and personal belongings within easy reach will make your runs easier and more comfortable.

3) Longer, remote runs become more achievable: if you're increasing your distance or testing new terrain, a hydration vest will give you peace of mind that you can run further.

4) Vests allow for better freedom of movement: unlike bulky belts or loose-fitting packs, hydration vests give you more bodily freedom.

5) You can carry extra gear: you can fit more equipment in a vest to prepare for emergencies or changeable weather.

6) You can pack compulsory kit for races: vests are a great way to store items required for races such as navigation or first aid equipment.

7) They give you serious style creds: hydration vests can complete your running look.

What is a hydration vest?

• A hydration vest, sometimes known as a running vest, is a lightweight and close fitting layer designed for running
• It has the capacity to hold fluids as well as personal belongings
• They’re typically made of a breathable mesh with accessible chest pockets
• They can range in capacity depending on the typical length of your runs

A hydration vest is a close-fitting over layer designed to hold personal belongings and necessities while you run. They’re ideal for holding fluids, many coming with hydration bladders and a tube for drinking so that you can conveniently drink on the go. They’re made of lightweight material, typically a breathable mesh, with accessible chest pockets to hold your phone, keys, gels, or more technical equipment.

It's important to know the difference between a hydration vest vs a hydration pack. The latter has a more typical backpack design with adjustable shoulder straps and belts, making them suitable for a wide range of activities from hiking to climbing.

Hydration vests on the other hand, while smaller in capacity, offer a more snug fit. “A hydration vest delivers a fit more akin to a garment than a traditional backpack, hugging your body and moving with you for maximum comfort when running,” explains Luke Scrine, Outdoor Equipment Buyer at Ellis Brigham. They usually feature elasticated laces and stretchy mesh material which prevents them from bouncing around during a run. Here's why every serious runner should make one part of their gear.

1. They allow you to refuel on the go

• Hydration vests offer plenty of storage for fluids, gels, and protein bars
• They make it easy to rehydrate on the move without needing to stop

In most cases, the primary use of a hydration vest is to allow you to refuel on the go. Carrying fluids is essential for longer runs, and being able to sip water hands-free is one of the best hydration tips for runners. “Many hydration vests will come with soft flask bottles that sit in stretchy pockets on the front harness, while others come with hydration bladders for those looking to carry larger amounts of fluids,” explains Luke.

The same goes for food or gels. Hydration vests come with handy storage pockets on the chest which offer plenty of room to store energy gels or protein bars, which are a must-have if you’re planning to run longer distances.

2. They offer convenient storage

• Running vests have easy-to-access chest pockets to store extra equipment or valuables
• They offer more storage space compared to alternatives like running belts and armbands

It’s not only long distance runs where hydration vests are handy, however. They’re still a great piece of kit even when the need for fuel is less important. If you’re a more casual runner who stays local to your home, you’ll still want to carry your phone while running, and perhaps your keys or your wallet.

You may have depended on a running belt or armband until now, but these are far from convenient (or comfortable). Instead, a hydration vest makes these items more easily accessible. “These vests are designed with lots of storage pockets on the front that you can access without taking it off or even without having to stop running,” explains Andy Brooks, Head Coach at Peak Running.

3. Longer, remote runs become more achievable

• The ability to carry extra fuel and gear in hydration vests allows you to run further
• The capacity to carry these items will give you peace of mind in more remote locations, too

If you’re training for a marathon or testing out some more remote trails, a hydration vest becomes increasingly important. As Andy explains, “the further and more remote you go, the more they come into their own”. This doesn’t only apply to the need for extra fuel (a must for longer distances), but the storage capacity means you can pack other useful equipment, without which you may have headed home sooner than planned.

For example, changeable seasonal weather can demand winter trail running gear. How often have you cut your run short because your hands are too cold or the sunset has crept in? With a hydration vest, you can carry a pair of gloves or a head torch to keep you going through these conditions.

4. Vests allow for better freedom of movement

• Unlike bulky belts, hydration vests give you more bodily freedom
• Their tight fitting nature means they don't bounce around or cause chafing
• Without the need for a bottle, you can carry water "hands-free"

The running community praise running vests for their comfort, offering a “barely there” wearable storage solution that doesn’t hinder performance. “It feels more like an extra layer, rather than a bulky bag on your back and gives maximum freedom of movement,” explains Lee Procter, an experienced trail runner and communications manager at INOV8. “By eliminating any feeling of the vest or pack bouncing, it allows runners to concentrate on what’s more important – pushing their running limits.”

Vests also allow you to go totally hands-free. If you’re torn between a water bottle vs a bladder, the latter obviously gives you more movability. You won’t find yourself re-strapping velcro belts or armbands, either, giving you the chance to explore more challenging terrain.

5. You can carry extra gear

• Running vests allow you to carry first aid or navigation equipment to keep you safe
• There's usually space for a few items of warm clothing to prepare changeable weather conditions

Longer runs come with greater risk. If you’re venturing further afield or somewhere remote, carrying extra gear in a hydration vest allows you to be prepared for any eventuality. “The longer you go in the sport the more likely you’ve had a circumstance when things haven't gone to plan, so having that extra kit with you helps you to stay comfortable and could potentially help to save your life,” says Andy.

If you’re wondering what to pack in a running vest, a foil blanket is really useful for emergencies. Lightweight layers are also a great idea. Consider bringing a running hat and gloves to keep your extremities warm, or a head torch for dark conditions.

6. You can pack compulsory kit for races

• Longer races usually require you to take certain equipment with you
• Hydration vests make it easy to carry necessities like foil blankets, whistles and navigation equipment

In a similar vein, certain races require you to carry mandatory equipment. For example, navigation gear such as a map and a compass is typically compulsory for ultra marathons, as is basic first aid equipment. (Both should be on your list of what to take trail running, too.) Even if you’re running in your local neighborhood, plasters and painkillers are worth adding to your pockets.

7. They give you serious style points!

• Hydration vests make you look like a serious runner
• They can complete your running attire for a more put-together look

Last, but certainly not least, wearing a hydration vest will instantly make you look like a serious runner. It’s like having the best trail running sunglasses or a neck gaiter – it might not be necessary for every run, but owning one shows that you take the sport seriously. They really elevate your running attire, too. After all, who doesn’t want a chic vest to complete their outfit while out on the trails?

Meet the reviewer

Mission Workshop Hauser 10L: first impressions

The Mission Workshop Hauser 10L hydration pack might have been made with bikepacking and trail riding in mind, but this robust, fully waterproof bag looked ideal for a range of other outdoor adventure activities to me – including wet-weather hiking (something we’d all better get used to doing more often), skiing and snowboarding, canyoneering, scrambling, low-level coasteering and even paddleboarding. So I was keen to put this versatility to test.

It’s important to point out that, unlike most of the hydration packs we feature on advnture, the Hauser isn’t a bag specifically designed for trail running – you can run with it, but it’s more robust and heavier than run-specific hydro packs, and you carry all the fluids in a bladder centrally located on your back, which won’t suit many runners. Instead, it sits somewhere between a hiking daypack, a hydration vest, a bikepacking bag and a ski pack.

Mission Workshop Hauser 10L: design and materials

The Hauser has a pretty modest internal carry capacity (10 liters), but it’s not intended to be taken out on multi-day missions, and if anything, this can be seen as a positive. It means the pack maintains a low profile on your back, and you’re not tempted into trying to haul too much unnecessary stuff around. There’s also plenty of external carry capacity. The pack is available in a multitude of colors, and three different fabrics: Dimension Polyant X-Pac, HT500 and MultiCam-Black Cordura.

The main compartment of the pack can be rolled shut and secured with a Velcro strap, or folded and clipped down over the pocket zips, for extra insurance against the elements. The Hauser has various hoops, loops and straps for attaching a helmet, pads or a bike lock, but these can easily be repurposed to help you carry other bits of outdoor kit for different pursuits (climbing helmets, snorkeling gear, rope – whatever).

There are three front pockets on this pack (and a fourth on the side). The largest has a vertical zip and comes compete with an internal tool rollbag (again, you can use this to organize other, non-bike-related gear and gadgets, or just dispense with it altogether – it’s not attached to the body of the bag). The front pouch is large enough, just, to take wet weather gear like a waterproof jacket and rain pants, while the other pockets – all of which zip shut – are small, and can only really be used to carry items such as gloves, beanies, sunglasses and snacks. However, the lower pocket also features straps with buckles that you can use to attach items that don’t fit inside the main compartment to the outside of the bag (for wet weather gear, for example – especially when it’s damp).

There are no side pouches for water bottles, of course, because this is primarily positioned as a hydration pack, and as such it has a really substantial compartment that sits behind the back panel and the main section of the bag, which zips fully open to make it really easy to insert your hydration bladder / reservoir of choice.

The Hauser can accommodate various sized bladders, up to three liters in capacity, and it works with different designs of reservoir from brands including CamelBak, HydraPak, Platypus and Nalgene & Osprey. There’s a dedicated Velcro hook for hanging the bladder and keeping it vertical, and hose ports lead out over both the left and right shoulder, to give you options. A corresponding hose hook / clip is found on both shoulder straps too, so you can keep things neat and tidy.

The pack comes in just one size, but the sternum belt slides up and down on the shoulder straps, and there are three different settings for positioning the waist belt, so you can adjust the harness according to the requirements of the person wearing it, or to best suit the activity you’re engaging in. Both the back panel and the shoulder straps are made with Perforated Ariaprene to enable airflow and cut down on sweatiness. At the top of the pack there’s a sturdy grab handle.

Mission Workshop Hauser 10L: on the trails

The Hauser is ideal for wearing while you’re spending a full day riding trails, or to take on bikepacking adventures as a hydration pack when your frame is fully loaded with everything else, leaving no room for a water bottle cage. I love the low-profile design, which helps me pack sensibly and not overload the bag, so I can keep my center of gravity low and stay balanced, and it’s easy to wipe down and keep clean after you’ve had some filthy fun.

However, I’ve been using the Hauser while hiking just as often (if not more) than when I’ve been biking. The all-conditions protection it offers makes it great as a pack for carrying a camera and other photography gear when the weather is at its worst. I’ve also been employing this bag pack as low-profile daypack and hydration solution when I’ve been scrambling around canyons and waterfalls, as I have been recently (great Fall fun).

The compartment for the hydration bladder is the best I’ve encountered on any of the many packs I’ve tested over recent years – the fact it zips fully open means you can position the bladder perfectly, whether you’re loading it full or empty, and the Velcro hook is nice and sturdy. It’s also easy to refill the reservoir when required.

The harness is comfortable enough, without being especially spectacular – it does the job it’s designed to do, and doesn’t rub, but it’s not as sumptuously comfortable as the harness on, say, an Osprey pack (but then it’s not intended for huge, long escapades).

I’m not convinced by the three position options it offers for the waist belt – I get that this makes it a one-size-fits-all pack, but I don’t thing this is the smartest way to achieve this, because you’re left with redundant clips that add to the already busy look of the bag.

My main quibble is that a couple of the pockets are too small to be of much use, and the design seems a little cluttered, with a few features that defy any real functional value and just get in the way. Overall, however, it’s a small but versatile bag, and it has been built to last, and to really protect whatever kit you put in it.

• How Advnture tests products

Ever since founders Chris Roff and Jake Doxat met on an expedition in Southern Chile in 1989, British brand Montane has prided itself on creating high-performance, lightweight gear for mountaineers and fast and light adventurers.

The brand’s range of backpacks embodies this DNA, consisting of its Gecko hydration packs, its Azote daypacks and its ever-popular Trailblazer series, packs designed for speedy mountain days. At Advnture, we’ve previously reviewed the standard Trailblazer 44L and the Trailblazer LT 20L, an ultralight, waterproof pack designed for mountain running, and were impressed with their lightweight qualities and design features.

In 2024, Montane unveiled the redeveloped range, which included the 25-liter and 35-liter Trailblazer XT packs. The XT is burlier, made from a more hardwearing, 210D triple ripstop nylon, making it suited to more serious mountain pursuits. It’s slightly heavier than the 25L version of the standard Trailblazer and also a tiny bit more expensive. I’m gonna stick my neck on the line here and assume XT stands for extreme.

The wonderful people at Trekkit, UK outdoor specialists supplied me with a sample and I was lucky enough to put this mountain pack through its paces in the Munros of the Scottish Highlands and in the English Lake District.

First impressions

The best outdoor gear tends to look elegantly simple at first glance before revealing hidden depths as you get to know it. This is the case with the Trailblazer XT, which crams a lot into a small package. It looks neat and tidy, while close inspection reveals subtle but thoughtful design touches, like the hidden ice axe loop or its clever use of elasticated mesh alongside hardwearing nylon.

From its beautifully designed harness clips to the ingenious main compartment opening, everything is intuitive, making manipulation of the pack quick and easy. It sometimes takes a little while to get in tune with a backpack, but I was in harmony with the Trailblazer at the trailhead.

Sustainable and durable fabrics

One of the key differences between the Trailblazer XTs and the standard Trailblazers is the recycled face fabric. Where the standard Trailblazer is woven from a lightweight 70D Nylon, the XT boasts a rugged 210D Triple Ripstop Nylon of similar strength to that seen in packs like Fjällräven’s Abisko Friluft or Osprey’s Manta. Sometimes fast and light gear comes with a durability penalty – that’s certainly not the case here. This should make the Trailblazer XT a solid pack for more technical mountain routes and able to withstand its fair share of rock and ice abrasion.

The fabric is treated with a PFC-Free DWR coating, making it water-repellent but not fully waterproof, unlike its cousin, the Trailblazer LT20. Breathability, ventilation and stability are supplied by the foam back panel, which is overlaid by mesh. The hipbelt is also nicely padded with a breathable polyester lattice. All the nylon and polyester in the pack is recycled, which earns a big green tick in the sustainability stakes.

Lightweight design

As a moderately lightweight pack, there’s no metal frame for additional support here, which is fine considering its 25-liter capacity. The compression straps and chest straps can be moved thanks to Montane’s new T-Hooks, allowing you to reconfigure the fit of the pack or adjust it to better hold trekking poles and the like. The T-Hooks are securely held in place and can be moved up and down a series of fabric loops that act as fixing points.

The Click and Go chest harness straps are beautifully designed, easily – and very satisfyingly, I might add! – clipping into the plastic runner and then detaching easily with a pull tag.

To fine tune the fit of the shoulder straps, the ZephyrAD system enables the wearer to move the upper back up and down, with Velcro holding it in place on the front and back. A handy scale on the inside assists you in finding the perfect fit.

A range of storage options

Considering the size and capacity of the pack, there are loads of places to stash your bits and bobs, enabling you to keep your gear organized. At the top of the pack, there’s the standard zippered lid pocket, as well as zippered compartment on the underside with a key clip.

The main compartment is easily and intuitively opened and closed using the drawcord, pull tab and fabric loop. There’s one inner pouch for the separation of items or for a hydration bladder. There’s the usual opening for a water tube and a Velcro fastening at the top. There’s also a sizeable, zippered pocket hidden behind the main front panel, accessible from the side.

From here on in, we’re into 'on the go' storage territory – and there’s plenty of it. Fabric meets mesh on either side of the back's base, providing two stretchy pockets that are ideal for water bottles or other items that you may want to hand. The hip belt also features two zippered mesh pockets with plenty of stretch.

One of my favorite features is the design of the zippered harness pockets, which open up to reveal an inner stretchy mesh gusset. This enables the pocket to expand to a size large enough to stash a soft flask, while it also doubles up as a secure and easily accessible place to put your phone or headlamp.

There’s no waterproof cover bundled in – hallelujah! These unwieldy additions to many of the best hiking backpacks often end up blowing away and littering the backcountry: internal dry bags are a much better solution, continuing to keep possessions dry once the pack's DWR coating has given up the ghost.

Mountaineers will notice little touches that nod to climbing or winter use. There’s a strap and buckle that runs across the top opening that can be used to cinch a rope in tight. Meanwhile, tucked in tightly into its own little opening on the front of the pack is a gear loop for an ice axe, which can be secured in place with an elasticated toggle higher up. There’s only one of these, so it’s not a pack for more technical mountaineering exploits or ice climbing, where two axes are de rigueur.

Capacity wise, it’s also obviously pretty low for all but the most lightweight winter adventures. It seems a shame Montane haven’t included a helmet holder, as seen in Berghaus’ MTN Guide 45 or Osprey’s Mutant backpacks, which allow a climbing helmet to be carried externally.

Out and about

I used the Trailblazer XT25 on hiking adventures throughout the summer, including trips to England’s Lake District National Park and the Scottish Highlands.

I found that it struck a good balance between support and lightweight comfort. It’s the kind of daypack that you forget you’re wearing, in a good way. Once the hip belt and chest straps are fastened and tightened, weight is nicely distributed, thanks to its body-hugging design. I’d rather feel like a snow leopard than a yak in the mountains and the XT25 certainly helped me feel more like the former. I was agile and unencumbered – though perhaps a little easier to spot among the peaks than the famously elusive big cats.

The ventilated back panel isn’t as breezy as a fully suspended system, but that’s the price you pay for a lighter pack without an internal frame. Nevertheless, airflow was decent and I found the whole harness system comfortable and easy to adjust.

When previously testing the Trailblazer LT 20L, I was disappointed that I couldn’t effectively stash my soft flasks in the harness pockets, as you can with many other hydration packs. So, I was pleased when one of the first things I noticed on the XT25 was the improved design of these pockets. The elasticated mesh gusset holds a flask in place even when the zipper is open, which gave me the option of using them in this way, as well as for handy but secure access to a phone or energy gels.

However, when taking things slower, it felt a bit odd having soft flasks up front and center, so I tended to use the side mesh for hydration storage while hiking. These were easy to reach while on the go, meaning I didn’t have to take the pack off every time I needed a drink. Similarly, the stretchy mesh zippered hip-belt pockets were very useful for quick stashing.

One very minor qualm is that the axe attachment points are on the same side as the zipper for the front compartment, so they have a habit of getting in each other’s way. Add in the buckle for one of the compression straps and you’ve got three features all clustered together in a small space. However, the customization offered by the T-hook attachments and fabric loops mean that you can move, or completely remove, both the ice axe attachment and the buckle, should you wish. Nevertheless, it’s not as though you can move the ice axe attachment to the opposite side, away from the zip, as the ice axe loop is fixed in place, so the clash still remains a bit of an issue.

At the end of the day, the Trailblazer XT25 is a pack that I can see myself getting loads of future use from. It hits the sweet spot in terms of weight, capacity and comfort for fast and light day hiking or scrambling and I'd be tempted to use it for easier winter walking and low grade mountaineering too.

Meet the reviewer

Montane Gecko VP 12+: first impressions

The Montane Gecko VP 12+ hydration pack is made for major missions: ultramarathon running, adventure racing and big training sessions where you need to carry not just plenty of water, but also a range of kit to keep you safe and sated out on the trails. It achieves this while being simultaneously tight-fitting and capacious.

I started using the Montane Gecko 12+ hydration pack while training for the Lakeland 50 ultramarathon in Cumbria. This event was the longest competitive race I’d ever taken on, so I needed to find a hydration pack I could have complete faith in before I wore it for the run itself. Would it shape up? Read on to find out. 

Montane Gecko VP 12+: design and materials

The vest comes with two top-quality 500ml / 17 fl oz soft flasks, which are housed in a pair of pouches – one on each side of your chest. There’s also a compartment complete with a velcro hook where you can house a large hydration bladder, if you prefer to carry water in that way. If you opt to stick just with the bottles, you can use this space to increase the carry capacity, but there are so many storage options on this pack, most people won’t need it.

The main storage compartment zips securely shut and can easily swallow the sort of stuff specified in the compulsory kit lists of most ultras and long-distance events, such as emergency base layers, waterproof jackets and rain pants, plus some food, spare socks, a hat and gloves, a reliable running headtorch and plenty more besides. 

Whistles often feature in these kit lists, and the Gecko 12+ comes with one, attached to a cord in one of the zip pockets. There are also reflective flourishes on the back, to keep you safe when running on lanes and roads with vehicles.

Beneath each of the flask pockets there are two deep pockets with zips, where you can stash a phone, map and compass, and snacks such as trail mix. And then there are multiple easy-to-access pouches for energy gels and bars. On the back there are bungee straps, offering yet more options. Finally, trekking poles can be secured to the front of the pack with cords and toggles designed specifically for this purpose.

Made from polygiene-treated, synthetic materials with plenty of stretch and some mesh elements for airflow, the pack secures tightly around the runner’s torso via a velcro belt and two elasticated sternum straps, which feature hooks that attach to corresponding hoops. This is a unisex design, and these straps can easily be moved up and down to achieve a comfortable fit for almost any bodyshape (at least, I think so – obviously I can’t speak for everyone, but during the Lakeland event I saw men and women wearing this pack and it seemed to be working for all of them).

Montane Gecko VP 12+: on the trails

Over the last couple of months I’ve used the Montane Gecko 12+ hydration pack on training runs as I prepared to take on my first ultra marathon for many years. The Lakeland 50 & 100 was originally conceived as a UK version of the Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc, and it’s infamously tough, so I really needed rock-solid kit that I could rely on – especially a pack that could hold everything I needed to take with me during an event that could potentially see me out in the unforgiving fells for up to 24 hours (which is the official cut-off for the 50 – the event I was taking on).

From a race base by the shores of Coniston Water in the heart of the Lake District, the 100 sends participants up and down the fells of Cumbria on a brutal course that includes 6,300m of ascent and takes place mostly on technical singletrack trails. The Lakeland 50 begins halfway around this loop, and while it’s ‘only’ 50 miles (80km), you still have to contend with 3,100m of ascent and the trails are every bit as rough and rugged.

The first thing to say is that the Gecko 12+ easily swallowed all my compulsory kit, including the extra layers mentioned above, plus a rigid camping cup (for soups, stews and other hot sustenance provided at checkpoints on the way round) and a first aid kit and space blanket. And thanks to the multitude of pockets and pouches, I was able to distribute the weight of all this stuff nice and evenly. 

Over the course of a long race, any small niggles with your pack can evolve into massive problems. Any degree of discomfort can become excruciating, and even relatively minor irritations mess with your head after a few hours. Happily, just as I’d experienced no such issues whatsoever with the Gecko 12+ during my training runs, it continued to be super comfortable during the race too.

I was able to access my bottles while running nice and easily, and they were easy to remove and refill at checkpoints. Having used hydration bladders for most of my adventure life, I’m a new convert to soft flasks, but I really appreciated them during this event. The fact that they’re right there in front of you as you run really reminds you to take on water regularly, and the size of the flasks was just right – almost invariably I arrived at the next checkpoint having just drained the last of the water from my bottles.

Conditions on the day were very humid, and I did some Olympic-level sweating, but I found that the mesh construction of this pack allowed my back to breathe and the moisture to evaporate to some extent.

The best thing you can ever say about a pack is that you forget you’ve got it on at all, and there were times when no longer felt like I was running in a hydration vest (although, to be fair, my mind did drift all over the place towards the end of the event). When I did finally get to the finish line, after a tough 14 hours on the trails (much of which was sensational, even sublime), I didn’t immediately take it off – I think I was on my second beer before I realized I still had it on – and that speaks volumes. I’m certainly thinking of wearing it next year, for the 100… but that’s another story.

• How Advnture tests products

Meet the reviewer

Camelbak Crux Reservoir 1.5L: first impressions 

When you're spending long days on the trail, at any temperature, you want easy access to water and this hydration bladder keeps you going for hours. The Camelbak Crux Reservoir has been around for a while, but the new update is 20 percent bigger and comes with a handle, which makes it even easier to fill.

When you're packing for a long hike, you can easily fill this bladder up under the tap thanks to its wide mouth and easy screw lid. Once it's full, a handy hook makes it easy for any backpack to accommodate, and you can lock the tub shut so it doesn't leak until you're ready to drink.

Once you hit the trail, the tube is easy to drink from and carries only a mild plastic taste, which we've grown to expect from most hydration bladders (read our article on how to get rid of the plastic taste from your hydration bladder). The durable construction is up to the demands of hiking and scrambling.

After your hike, the bladder doesn't turn inside which does mean it requires a little extra attention to dry it, but the hose detaches and the wide mouth makes it easy to wipe out and keep clean. Compared to other reservoirs, this one comes in at a good price, is versatile for different activities and offers great quality and performance.

Camelbak Crux Reservoir 1.5L: in the field

During my years living in Colorado, my Camelbak was a staple of all my outdoor adventures, making sure I stayed hydrated at high altitude. Alas, it didn't make it across the pond with me and I've been making do with a water bottle for the past few years. Recently, however, I got my hands on the new-and-improved Crux and I've been using it for various hikes across Scotland, the Lake District and in Gran Canaria.

Here’s how it performed:

Ease of use

I love how easy this hydration reservoir is to use, from filling it up to drinking. The wide mouth makes filling and emptying it really easy, and the lid screws on tightly without any hassle, plus I've used it in a few different backpacks and it seems to work with all of them, even my small running backpack.

Sometimes you find yourself sucking away and getting nowhere due to a kink in the tube but this hose just delivers a great flow of water whenever I need a sip. The bite valve works great and I really like the locking device as I've been known to end up with a puddle in my car without one.

Ease of maintenance

Not only do I want my hydration bladder to provide easy access to water, I need it to be easy to care for so it doesn't end up moldy and mildewy, and let's face it, I'm lazy. So, the wide mouth makes it really easy to reach inside and scrub as well as dry it with a paper towel, and that's a good thing because it doesn't turn inside out for drying. Also, the hose also detaches, so it's easy to clean the places where gunk tends to build up.

Weight and packability

This isn't the lightest hydration reservoir out there, and that's down to the robust construction. It's heavier than my water bottle, but it also holds a lot more water and is easier to fit into my backpack.

If you want to pack it away for the season, or for travel, the detachable hose also means it can be stowed neatly without placing undue strain on the hose. The bladder can't be rolled up like some other models due to the screw lid, but it's easy to pack flat.

Durability

So far, this is obviously made of tough stuff and I haven't noticed any wear or tear, kinks in the hose or experienced any leaks. Like most gear, however, only time and use will tell, so for now I'll say that it's of high quality (and the various attachment points are easy to operate, which cuts down on straining the equipment) and I'll update this if it starts to disintegrate.

Camelbak Crux Reservoir 1.5L: the bottom line

This is a top quality, high-performing hydration bladder that comes at an excellent price and can be used by hikers, bikers and runners. If you can't stand the taste of plastic, check out the Platypus Big Zip EVO which we rated best overall in our guide to the best hydration bladders, and guarantees no taste.

• How Advnture tests products

In the world of outdoor carry and the best hiking backpacks, Osprey needs little introduction. The all-conquering Colorado brand continues to push through innovations in backpack technology, crafting comfortable and multi-functional products with a flair for design ingenuity. It had jaws on the floor its ambitious and futuristic Osprey UNLTD packs, including the excellent UNLTD AirScape 68, in late 2022, cementing its place as a leader in the continued evolution of the modern backpack.

Two of Osprey’s most popular products in their wide range of daypacks are the male Talon and female Tempest packs, with their ventilated AirScape backpanels, comfortable harnesses and multi-sport applications. The Talon and Tempest Velocity packs are designed with running-inspired features, such as a harness system that can carry easy access soft flasks. This enhances their versatility and they appear in both the hiking backpack and running backpack sections of Osprey’s website.

Meet the reviewer

First impressions

Right, this first bit won’t apply to the other colorways, which by all accounts look very smart. I was testing the – admittedly limited edition – white version of the Osprey Talon Velocity 20 backpack, which has lime green straps and detailing on one side and mauve on the other. These are brave choices from Osprey, to say the least. I honestly can’t understand why anyone who’s planning on using this pack for what it’s designed for – ie running, hiking and cycling in the backcountry – would choose a white design that will look dirty almost immediately.

I contacted Osprey about this and the brand clarified that the limited edition pack is intended as a crossover between urban/lifestyle stylings in a technical trail pack. So, if you intend to hike in the backcountry, I’d choose one of the other options. If you fancy the benefits of a technical pack for the city, this could be an good choice. It’s definitely a statement piece – just don’t spill your coffee on it.

Anyway, once I got past the color, I was able to get beneath the skin of this thoughtfully designed pack. Its pedigree as a potential running backpack was immediately apparent and I fetched my Osprey soft flasks right away to fit them into their slots on the harness. Seems a bit of a shame that Osprey didn’t throw a couple of flasks into the overall package as a sweetener! Overall, it seems to strike a nice balance between comfort and minimalism, while it’s obvious that the various mesh pockets and zippered compartments allow for versatile storage.

Fabrics and design

The Talon Velocity is crafted from a cocktail of fully recycled and Bluesign approved nylons, with rugged 420D nylon in its base, high-tenacity 100D x 210D nylon for the main body and 70D nylon elsewhere. For water-resistance, the fabrics have been treated with DWR, which stands for Durable Water Repellency and causes those satisfying water beads to form on the surface, and without harmful “forever chemicals”.

The running-inspired harness system is similar to Osprey’s Duro 6, with an elasticated mesh on either strap for holding a soft flask and a stabilization loop at the top that goes around the neck of the flask. There’s a zippered phone pocket on the left strap, allowing you to have your device quickly to hand during running adventures, and a mesh stow pocket on the right. The chest straps’ buckles are meatier here though, with clever clips for moving them up and down their fabric runners and adjustment straps that enable you to find the perfect fit. As with most Osprey packs, there’s a little emergency whistle on the upper clip. This design means that reaching both your soft flasks and the whistle with your mouth is easily achieved while on the move and without having to take off the pack.

A Velcro panel allows the wearer to adjust the height of the harness easily and quickly for maximum comfort. There’s a holey spacer mesh – a hexagonal foam structure – on the straps and hipbelt that provides cushioning without sacrificing breathability. Its appearance puts me in mind of honeycomb. The tightening system pulls both ends of the hipbelt into the body, which enhances stability on rugged trails. 

Ventilation is critical for a pack designed for sweaty exploits like mountainous trail running. The suspension system comprises a mesh sheet that sits in front of an EVA foam backpanel, while an Atilon polyethylene foam framesheet wraps around the body, providing load transfer without unduly compromising breathability.

Beyond the back panel is space for a hydration bladder with the usual clip to make it fully compatible with Osprey’s reservoirs. Along with the soft flask spaces, you can easily carry around 3 liters at a time, making this a useful hydration pack to have on your side for longer adventure races.

Storage for fast and light exploits

The main compartment is relatively unfussy, with an internal mesh zippered pocket with key clip and drawstring closure. It’s secured via a top-cinch that allows the wearer to compress the pack as much as needed. If you wanted to use the Talon Velocity as a climbing or cycling pack, the stretchy front mesh pocket has enough give to wrap over a helmet, holding it in place at the top of the pack.

Both sides of the pack hold large elasticated mesh pockets with dual access, from the top and from the side. Twin compression straps allow you to cinch whatever you place in here to make it more secure or attach items externally. 

For further secure storage of items, there’s a small, zippered pocket on the right hip belt and a less secure but useful open mesh stash pocket on the left. The front of the pack features lightweight trekking pole or ice axe attachments, while poles can also be stowed to the side between elasticated loops on the left hip belt and the bottom of the left harness strap.

There’s no waterproof cover, which I approve of whole heartedly, as internal dry bags are a far better option. Standard waterproof backpack covers have a tendency to blow off, littering our wild places.

On the trails

I wore the Talon Velocity on hikes and runs in England’s West Country and South Wales’ Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park during early spring. As expected, once I’d made all the appropriate adjustments, it was a comfortable little daypack to carry, both at speed and when taking things a little slower. When running, it moved with me, thanks to the way the fit can be tailored by the various straps. The mesh backpanel provided the required ventilation on warmer days, enhancing the overall comfort levels.

The versatility of the Talon Velocity is its main selling point. Other than winter walking, mountaineering or wild camping expeditions, there’s no activity that I’d do that it doesn’t have covered. Plus, the 30-liter version would be a decent option for one night backcountry camps, especially with its dedicated sleeping pad attachments straps, though my 20-liter version lacks the capacity and features.

I personally love having soft flasks immediately to hand for both long runs and faster hikes. The approach is my preferred option to a hydration bladder, or bulkier water bottles. When I’m running, it’s also handy to have my phone in such an easily accessible yet secure space. When taking photos or using a navigation app, quick access is far preferable to having to take a pack off every time to grab my phone.

Blurring the lines between a running shirt and a hydration pack, the Hydroshirt – which has just launched a Kickstarter campaign to seek funding – is an innovative new product designed by specifically by experienced runners to reduce the bulk and slosh of carry water supplied while you’re running.

The Hydroshirt is the first piece of functional performance wear from Vessel Athletics, founded by runners Jasmine Sanchez and Jalen Brown, which aims to provide a fresh take on hydration gear.

The Hydroshirt is a lightweight shirt that integrates a 1L (32oz) removable water bladder, designed to let runners carry water seamlessly while eliminating the inconvenience of weight and slosh. The lumbar-shaped hydration reservoir has a center baffle for even water distribution.

Other features include:

• A bite-valve straw for easy sipping
• Sleeve pockets to stash gels, keys, earphones and small personal items
• Hidden magnet that secures the straw
• An adjustable fastening system to stabilize the bladder and prevent sloshing
• Adjustable straps to fully secure the water bladder from moving
• A removable insulated sleeve for the 1L bladder to help keep water cool
• Lightweight wicking fabric with perforations for increased breathability
• Reflective strips throughout the shirt for added visibility and safety

But, to be honest, the best way to get an ides of how different the Hydroshirt is to a traditional hydration pack is to watch it in action…

Sanchez, an avid runner and the visionary behind Vessel Athletics says, “The Hydroshirt was born out of my own challenges to find an easy solution to carry water on my runs. Traditional hydration solutions just didn’t cut it. Backpacks and belts were bulky and flimsy, and holding a bottle was flat-out inconvenient. That’s when the idea struck: why not integrate a hydration system directly into a shirt we’re already wearing?

“After surveying and interviewing over 75 runners, it was evident that I was not the only one dealing with this issue. That’s when Jalen and I set out to design a better hydration solution.”

The Hydroshirt has been five years in development and now Vessel Athletics is inviting people to invest in their Kickstarter campaign, currently live until June 6, 2024. Early bird pricing tiers start at $89 before eventually retailing for  a list price of $150. The Hydroshirt will be available for shipping to the US and most international countries. Investors can expect to receive their Hydroshirt as early as the end of June.

• The best trail running sunglasses 2024: clarity and protection

Black Diamond Pursuit Waist Pack 6L: first impressions

Combining the lightweight and durable construction of a high-performance trail running pack with the adjustable sizing and versatility of a technical hiking pouch, the Black Diamond Pursuit Waist Pack 6L is a multi-activity pack with comfort and versatility at the forefront. Situated in Black Diamond’s Pursuit product range, which includes 15L and 30L backpacks, the Pursuit Waist Pack is at home on the trail whether you’re on foot, bike, skis or even horseback.

Made from 100% recycled body fabric, the Pursuit Waist Pack is designed to be comfortable on long adventures, thanks to a highly breathable back panel with a honeycomb-like mesh. Two exterior zipped pockets easily stash everything you need, along with quick-access side water bottle pockets, and one zipped interior pocket with a key clip.

Black Diamond Pursuit Waist Pack 6L: on the trails

The first thing that struck me when I used the Black Diamond Pursuit Waist Pack 6L, heading out on a 10km trail run, was how incredibly roomy the pack was. As it’s designed as a unisex, one-size pack, I was sceptical that the fit would be right for me, as I tend to wear a small/medium and around 28-30in waist in clothing. Thanks to the continuous fit harness though, I could adjust the fit whenever I was doing more dynamic movement on bumpy trails, or have it slightly looser for adjustable comfort on the move when I was wearing it over layers.

The waist belt was ideal for sports when I wasn’t sure I wanted to carry a massive pack with me but wanted the option to put a spare layer away and have somewhere to store water and gloves.

The soft flasks are a bonus that help show the pack is aiming itself at the running/biking/multi-activity audience. Interestingly, there is some additional detailing where the pouches have a small bit of cord to loop round the ‘nip’ of the sports bottle on either pocket whilst the adjustable webbing on the side is easily cinchable to stop the bottle from jumping out when I hit a pothole. The best bit is that this is super easy to do, even with gloves on, so there’s no awkward fumbling around with freezing hands in sub-zero conditions.

I did find the excess webbing a bit annoying in strong winds though as the pack is sized for a huge variation – from a 24in to a 51in waist. Personally, I’d prefer less webbing or a built-in elasticated tie to stop it from flapping around as over long distances this was a bit irritating. I would also have suggested using a slightly bigger buckle, as this is effectively what the waist pack is weighted against, so the small buckle does press against the stomach.

Functionality wise, I really liked the key clip, which was in an accent red colour that was easy to clip the house key onto to avoid it getting lost on the trail.

The reflective detailing, from the reflective BD logo on the front, to the grey tabs on the drink pouches, to the horizontal line on the bottom of the pouch, helps a lot when you’re using the pouch in low light adventures. When I was testing this in Iceland, there were many months where we didn’t have sunlight in the evenings so having as much reflective detailing as possible was ideal to ensure visibility on the un-lit roads.

For outdoor users who want to guarantee their belongings’ safety, I’d always use a dry bag to make sure things are protected from the elements. The water-resistant zipper is great at keeping persistent rain and mud from penetrating the inner contents and is a more technical zipper than other packs I’ve tested of a similar construction and capacity.

What’s more, the pack is fully bluesign certified, being made from 100% recycled materials and using the Bluesign Approved dyeing process to reduce chemical waste. The mesh and back panel allowed for effective moisture management, thanks to the fast wicking and didn’t absorb sweat when I was testing this on warm, springtime runs.

• How Advnture tests products

Meet the reviewer

Arc’teryx Norvan 7 Vest: first impressions

There is an awful lot going on in the seemingly small, body-hugging Norvan 7 hydration vest from top-end Canadian brand Arc’teryx, which manages to offer a huge amount of carry capacity and performance-orientated functionality while remaining impressively minimalist looking.

When you unpack the Norvan 7 (which is available direct from Arc'teryx), the very first task is to familiarize yourself with the various features and attachment points that proliferate the product. 

I must admit, my initial thought was that this vest was over-adorned with attachment points, cords, loops and hooks, which could potentially get in the way or even snag on foliage during trail runs. 

But on closer inspection I realized each of these elements can be stashed away in its own little pouch or removed altogether if you find them surplus to your requirements (which many will be for most people, even those doing some full-on running or hiking challenges).

Arc’teryx Norvan 7 Vest: design and construction

To start with the obvious, the Norvan 7 comes with a pair of 500ml soft-sided water bottles (or flasks if you prefer), positioned in purpose-made pouches on the chest and held in place with elasticated cord hoops with pull-tabs. These BPA- and PVC-free Hydrapak flasks are top quality, with a brilliant bite valve and a no-leak guarantee. 

Below each of these bottle pouches is an open-topped pocket, comfortably large enough to accommodate several running gels and an energy bar or two. Inside one of these pouches (the left one) you’ll find an interior pocket that zips shut, so you can secure anything important, like emergency cash or a credit card, your car key, ID or essential medical information. 

On the back of the vest are two expansive ‘dump pockets’, easily big enough to take a running jacket, emergency lightweight shell layers, a space blanket, gloves, or a hat, cap or sun visor. 

As mentioned previously, there are multiple loops and hoops for attaching running poles or trekking poles, or indeed any other accessories that might become necessities during an ultra challenge, adventure race or epic trek – arguably too many (but they are removable). 

High on the left shoulder is a secret pocket (at least it took me ages to find it) with a little whistle secured to the vest on a cord (which is long enough to get it to your mouth) – a nice touch that could genuinely save your life in an emergency, but certainly helps tick off something often listed as required kit in many fell, ultra and mountain races.

To do the vest up, there are two pieces of cord with plastic hooks that you attach to corresponding hoops, before pulling the cord tight – essentially a minimalistic equivalent to the sternum straps you find on backpacks. You can change the lateral position of these cords to get a comfortable fit (an especially important factor for women), but it’s crucial to choose the correct size vest in the first place, because this is the only way of getting the garment tight and secure.

The Norvan 7 is constructed from PowerNet stretch mesh, which allows a full range of movement while facilitating maximum airflow and breathability. The nylon-and-elastane material mix is stretchy, lightweight and tough, and should last the distance during all sorts of ultra shenanigans, but sadly, there’s no evidence that Arc’teryx have used any recycled fabric here.

Other features include a reflective logo on the rear for safety when running or hiking around vehicles, and simply to add extra visibility in low-light situations.

Although available in gender specific versions, other than the sizing and the color options, we can’t identify anything different about the women’s vest that makes it better for the female form. (As noted, you have the ability to move the chest straps, but that’s a feature on both the men’s and the women’s iterations.)

Arc’teryx Norvan 7 Vest: on the trails

I’ve been testing the Norvan 7 hydration vest from Arc’teryx during long training runs in springtime in the South West of Britain. I put the vest to its first true test during an event aptly called The Grizzly, a 20-mile (32km) mixed terrain running race along pebble beaches and country lanes, across cliff tops and muddy fields, through thigh-deep deep bogs and over the high, heartbreaking hills of East Devon. 

Although there are water stations at various points along the route of this race, organizers recently banned plastic cups and asked participants to provide their own drinking receptacles, and the flasks on the Norvan 7 proved perfect for this application. I kept one for use with electrolyte tablets and other for pure water. 

The Hydrapak softflasks are excellent, and they feature bite valves that make them to easy to sip from mid run, without breaking your stride. Aside from using good components, however, Arc’teryx have paid careful attention to detail in the construction of their new vest, and one of the little things I really loved was the inclusion of easy-to-locate pull tabs on the cords keeping the flasks in place, so you can get them out nice and easily for refilling at water stations. 

The carry capacity of the vest is seriously impressive too. The pouches positioned below the flasks can fit most of your fuel and snack requirements in (although running with these stuffed full of gels, plus having two full bottles bouncing around on your chest can leave you feeling a bit like Dolly Parton).

The much more expansive pouches on the back of the vest can swallow a huge amount of kit, including base layers and waterproof jackets that you may want carry just in case, or which you might put on to fend off the morning chill but soon need to take off and carry. Because they’re stretchy, when not in use these pouches stay flat to the vest and don’t flap around in the wind.

The huge array of attachment points means you can also carry tools such as poles in a variety of ways, while leaving both your hands free to help negotiate technical and rocky routes. I still think there are a couple more sets of hoops and hooks on this vest than anyone realistically requires, even during the most epic adventure race scenarios, but I appreciate having the ability to customize the setup (especially because methods for lugging poles is a very personal thing).

The two-strap closure method on the Norvan 7 is a simple system that works fairly well, but I did think I might have a achieved a slightly tighter fit around the base of my ribs with a pull cord hem positioned there, which would come in useful when the vest is fully loaded.

Overall, though, the Norvan 7 is a very comfortable vest that can accommodate lots of kit and caboodle, and it stays securely in place during activities.

• How Advnture tests products

Meet the expert

H&M Mesh Running Vest: first impressions

The H&M Mesh Running Vest (available to buy direct from H&M) is part of the fast fashion giant's first foray into outdoor gear. It launched at the same time as the H&M StormMove 3-Layer Shell Jacket, and suffers a similar problem – although it looks the part superficially, it simply doesn't deliver when you're out on the roads and trails.

This is a relatively simple hydration vest, which as the name implies, is mostly made from lightweight mesh. It has deep pockets for two water bottles on the front, plus two shallower pockets for energy gels or chews. Strangely, these shallow pockets have drawstrings, but can't be cinched tight, so you wouldn't want to store anything valuable inside. There's also a small zippered pocket for keys, and a large, shallow pocket on the back.

The Mesh Running Vest comes in a wide range of sizes, from XS to L, which is unusual for a hydration vest. The reason becomes apparent when you look at the chest straps. The vest is secured with three pieces of webbing across the chest, which fasten with side-release clips. Unlike the more sophisticated straps on packs from the likes of Camelbak, these are sewn in place and can't be moved up and down to suit different body types.

You can, however, tighten the bottom of the vest a little using an adjustable strap hidden at each side. There are also two adjustable elasticated loops, which H&M says these are intended for storing trekking poles, but doing so would block access to the back pocket.

The most frustrating thing about the H&M Mesh Running Vest is that it doesn't come with bottles. That's not uncommon (some of our top rated hydration packs don't include them) but H&M doesn't sell suitable bottles separately either, so it's your job to find some that will fit the vest's deep but narrow pockets.

I didn't have any, so ended up buying a pair of soft Ronhill flasks specifically for testing purposes. Buying two of suitably sized bottles could easily cost the same as the vest. For that price, you could pick up a mid-range hydration pack from a company like Nathan with bottles and/or bladder included.

H&M Mesh Running Vest: on the roads

The H&M Mesh Running Vest's biggest advantage is its breathability. I wore it for a 10-mile run on one of the hottest days of last year, and stayed comfortably cool when my regular running backpack might have had me sweating.

The vest never rubbed my shoulders either, even when worn with a tank top, which isn't always the case with hydration packs. Unfortunately, that's about where the advantages end. This feels like a pack that was designed by someone who's taken notes from other manufacturers, but hasn't consulted people who actually enjoy running.

For example, the H&M vest has plenty of pockets, but other than the small zippered one, which is great for keeping your keys secure and preventing them jingling, most of them aren't very well thought through.

For example, you could stash a lightweight running jacket in the large pocket on the back, and I chose to use it for my first aid kit, but it's only useful for something that'll completely fill the space. There's no fastening and the strip of elastic around the top is quite slack, so smaller items like phones or energy gels will fall out while you run. You couldn't put a lumbar hydration bladder in there either; it's not large enough and there's nowhere for the tube to go.

Although I could adjust the length of each chest strap, the vest never felt completely secure, and unless the weight of my cargo was perfectly even, it tended to sag to one side. I also found that although my Ronhill bottle was long, it tended to sink down into the pocket as I drank, requiring me to spend time fishing it out. Most packs designed like this have a drawstring or elastic that prevents the bottle moving

There's no cushioning behind the bottle pockets either, so as the bottle sinks down, you might start to feel it rubbing on your chest. Not ideal.

There is a small strip of reflective tape on the front of the vest, and a larger piece across the back, but H&M's designers have chosen a strangely dark color that doesn't actually shine much light back at night, even when hit with car headlights.

• How Advnture tests products

These days, it’s hard to walk down a city street, never mind a mountain trail, without spotting a runner in a vest. The running vest, also known as a hydration pack, is a snug-fitting garment that carries water and gear and definitely sends a signal that you are a serious runner – you’re not just going for a casual jog, you’re setting off on an adventure.

But do you have to be a serious runner to wear a vest? And what goes in it anyway? If you’re new to running, you may be asking yourself these very questions. After all, you probably love the fact that running is all about lacing up your trail running shoes and heading out the door, not loading up with multiple kilos worth of gear. In this article, we examine when you might need a running vest, and what to put in it.

Do you need a running vest?

First off, just because you’re a runner doesn’t necessarily mean you need a running vest – in a lot of scenarios, it’s an accessory rather than an essential. If you’re heading out for an hour or less, and you’re close to home, you won’t usually need to carry water (unless you’re running in extreme heat) or snacks or extra clothing. 

That said, running vests aren’t only the domain of ultra runners either. I don’t typically run for much longer than an hour and I’m usually quite happy to just stash my house keys and phone in the thigh pockets of my running leggings, but if I’m using public transport to reach the trails, it means I’m out of the house for several hours. In those instances, I do wear my Aonijie Wind Tracker vest to carry my water, keys, credit card and phone. My running jacket doesn’t have any pockets and when it’s cold out, my vest also adds a layer of protection against the wind that I quite like. 

If you prefer running in shorts, which have less storage capacity, find a running jacket too warm or don’t like the feeling of things bouncing around in your jacket pockets, you also might want a running vest for any distance. Basically, a hydration vest can be a handy way to store items that doesn’t interfere with your running the way a backpack can and there’s no set distance that you need to run in order to consider one.

What should you pack in your running vest?

Now that we’ve established that you can wear a running vest for any distance or type of run you like, it should be evident that you can pack whatever you like in it. However, if you’re setting off on a long backcountry trail run, below are the items you’ll want to pack in your vest, which should have multiple stretchy pockets and hold more gear than its appearance suggests. 

Many of these items will never come out of your vest, but if you end up out on the trail longer than planned, the weather changes (which happens much more dramatically at altitude) or you get injured, you’ll be happy to have them.

• Gloves: When it’s cold out, you might already be wearing a pair of lightweight synthetic or wool running gloves, but it can be smart to also pack a burlier pair of insulated waterproof gloves to protect your paws against a blizzard.
• Neck gaiter: A neck gaiter is lightweight but has multiple uses, from shielding your face and neck from an icy wind to serving as a running headband.
• Hat: Carry a wool beanie hat to protect your head if the temperatures drop or you have to stop.
• Base layer: When you run, you get hot and sweaty but when you stop, you’re cold and wet quickly. For long adventures, carry an extra long sleeved base layer that you can change into if you get lost or injured to reduce your risk of cold weather conditions like hypothermia.
• Waterproof jacket: A lightweight, breathable waterproof jacket can be worn while running in inclement conditions, and can be pulled on as an extra layer of protection if you find yourself waiting out a storm.
• Headlamp: Packing a headlamp when you’re setting off at 7 a.m. can seem like overkill, but if things don’t go to plan, you don’t want to be caught out without a light source or burn up your phone’s battery using the flashlight. Any headlamp will do, but if you get a running headlamp you can use it for night running too.
• Water: Obviously, the main purpose of a running vest is to carry water and that’s exactly what you should use it for if you’re going out for more than an hour. Most running vests will have pockets for either a hydration bladder or soft water bottles for running, so you can pick your preference. If you really don’t like the sloshing and you know there are lots of water sources on the trail, carry a LifeStraw for health and safety.
• Snacks: You don’t need to go nuts with carrying food unless you’re planning on an ultra run, but it’s a good idea to always have a couple of running gels for emergencies. They don’t weigh a thing and can provide you with a boost if you bonk, stabilize you if you’re suffering from shock and help keep your spirits and energy levels up if you’re out all night.
• First aid kit: A running first aid kit should have everything from blister pads to an emergency blanket and whistle and should always come with you in the backcountry.
• Navigation: Chances are you use your phone and GPS watch as your primary navigation devices, and that’s fine, but do bring backup tools that don’t rely on a battery, such as a paper map and lightweight compass. If you are relying solely on your phone, bring a solar charger.
• Communication: Learn how to keep your phone charged on the trail in case you need to call for help, and for backcountry adventures, remember your phone may be basically useless so consider a satellite communicator device such as the Garmin InReach which relies on GPS and helps you communicate with mountain rescue if needed.

• How to carry water while running – and when do you need to?

Both Osprey and CamelBak are best known for their high quality backpacks. Let’s take a look at the similarities and differences between the two popular brands and the different types of backpacks on offer. 

As a general observation, Osprey makes a wide range of packs for different sports and in many different sizes and capacities. CamelBak has been traditionally known for its hydration packs for mountain bikers, although it's now making packs for different activities and with more storage capacity.

History of Osprey

Osprey was founded by Mike Pfotenhauer in California, America, in 1974. At first, Pfotenhauer designed and manufactured a range of technical packs himself. Over the years, the range of packs has changed and grown but the aim is still to make high quality, long lasting packs to suit outdoors enthusiasts. The headquarters is now based in Colorado. 

History of CamelBak

CamelBak is also an American outdoor equipment company based in California, and best known for its hydration products, such as hydration packs and water bottles. 

The origins of CamelBak date to 1989, when founder Michael Eidson was competing in the Hotter'N Hell Hundred bicycle race in Texas. So the story goes, Edison, who was an emergency medical technician, filled an IV bag with water and stuck it in a tube sock. He then pinned this to the rear of his top and secured the tube over his shoulder.

He took the hydration idea to a friend, Roger Fawcett, who tested it scientifically and went on to design and sell the first CamelBak product, the ThermalBak. 

At first cyclists shunned the product because they said it looked geeky, but a clever marketing campaign, 'Hydrate or Die', saw sales suddenly grow. CamelBak is now one of the most popular hydration pack companies for mountain bikers.

A closer look at Osprey products

There's a huge range of Osprey packs, including rucksacks for hiking, backpacking, running, cycling and skiing and snowboarding, as well as travel and general lifestyle packs.  The company also sells hydration packs, child carriers, and kids’ backpacks.

Packs are either unisex fit of designed specifically to suit men or women. There is also a useful on-line sizing mechanism so you can work out which of the packs will fit you best. Many packs have rear torso systems that can be adjusted for height as well.

Backpacks range from compact six-liter lumbar packs through to 70-liter packs (or even larger) bags for multi-day backpacking expeditions. Hydration packs are available from 0.5l to 15l and for runners, hikers and cyclists.

Osprey also sells a range of running packs, plus running vests for shorter outings. It designs packs specifically for cyclists and mountain bikers too, as well as a range of hydration packs, where the focus is on carrying a water bladder.

Another big product area for Osprey is travel bags, from smaller carry-on luggage packs to wheeled travel bags from 36l to 130l. 

Osprey's three child carriers (including our top pick, the Osprey Poco Plus) are aimed at parents who want to carry youngsters while hiking. There is also a growing range of packs made to suit children.

The company's hiking backpacks are generally thoughtfully designed, with features such as well-designed carrying systems, tons of pockets, and attachment straps for trekking poles and ice axes. In fact, If there is any criticism to be handed to Osprey, it’s that there are sometimes too many pockets, straps and other features that you may not always need.

Unless you've purchased a dedicated hydration pack or running backpack, you'll usually need to buy a separate hydration bladder or flask to carry water. Osprey does make and sell these but they do not come as standard with all the company's backpacks. The company also makes a range of other accessories including dry bags, totes, packing cases and cable locks.

Osprey highlights its environmental and sustainability credentials where possible – and applicable. For example, the Hikelite 18 pack is made with Bluesign-approved main body fabrics, GRS-certified 100% recycled main body fabrics and a DWR treatment made without PFAS.

CamelBak packs in more detail

While CamelBak started as a designer of packs for mountain biking, the company has branched out in more recent years. Like Osprey, CamelBak sell highs quality and respected packs to suit a range of activities, including cycling, running, hiking and skiing, plus packs for children. 

The main difference is that Camelbak packs always focus on hydration. The packs for different sports come in a range of sizes, but storage for a bladder or bottles is the main emphasis. Most of the packs have a hydration bladder as standard, while running vests, have smaller soft flasks for water. The packs are sold with the hydration bladders and soft flasks, so you don't need to buy them separately

A few other packs, especially those for hiking and skiing, that have a larger volume for packing other kit, such as spare layers, but the largest size is a 32l hiking rucksack.

Another noticeable difference between CamelBak and Osprey packs is the number of pockets and compartments. Osprey packs have far more pockets and storage areas as standard. CamelBak tends to have a simpler and more streamlined approach to designing their packs. Many of the packs made by CamelBak are designed in one size and a unisex fit  although there are some more recent innovations, such as a running vest designed to fit the female physique. There is a choice of colorways for many packs, but not all. 

CamelBak also has a range of military backpacks and bottles, and sells a range of accessories, including different sizes of hydration bladders, soft flasks, water bottles, cool bags, filtration devices, bite valves, cleaning products, spares etc. 

Camelbak has its own list of restricted substances that it avoids using in its products and packaging for safety and sustainability reasons, such as BPAs and PVC. Some of its bottles are made using a type of plastic made from 50% recycled material.

The company has a system of badges (green, silver, gold, and platinum) to show how many sustainability factors have been considered when making its various packs. These include using safer chemicals, using minimal and recycled packaging, using recycled materials in the product itself, designing packs to be repaired, and reducing the use of resources used during production.

Pros and cons Osprey vs CamelBak

If you are looking for a hydration pack specifically, the CamelBak is an obvious choice. The company invented this type of pack and has been designing and manufacturing hydration packs and accessories for decades. They are a go-to company for sports packs that carry water neatly and efficiently. 

CamelBak has branched out to make other packs, such as running vests and a few skiing or hiking packs with more storage volume, but the main emphasis is hydration.

Meanwhile, Osprey’s vast range of packs for different activities is focused more on storage and carrying kit. There are sleeves and pockets for hydration bladders and flasks, but this is not the emphasis of most of their packs.  However, Osprey do sell a few hydration specific packs.

There is a much more limited range of sizes of CamelBak packs. Many are unisex and one size only, while Osprey sell many packs in male and female specific sizes and a number of sizes within each gender category.

Osprey sell packs in a wide variety of volume sizes, too.  CamelBak mostly sell smaller volume packs and with hydration at the heart of the design of most packs.

Osprey have planet friendly credentials and provide details of sustainable designs and materials for each pack. Meanwhile, CamelBak do not appear to have any information about sustainability or the environment on their website. They may well have sustainable goals but the information is not readily shown on the sales website. 

What brand should I choose?

It depends on what you need your pack for. If it's a shorter outing where hydration is the main need, then CamelBak could be a good choice. Osprey sell packs for all kinds of sports and from shorter outings to longer journeys, where storage of gear and spare kit is more important. 

It's worth trying packs for fit, too. Osprey offer more choices of sizes and fit with more options for female-specific products.

The fit and comfort of packs can be a very individual thing, so pop along to an outdoors retailer and see what is on offer and try on a few packs before committing.

• Best running backpacks: light and comfortable packs tested

Longer trail runs don’t just mean finding the best trail running shoes – you also need a storage solution for all the gear you need to carry, like water, snacks, extra clothing and even a lightweight running jacket. For years, runners have been using hydration packs – essentially small backpacks that carry a hydration bladder but fit more snugly than a hiking backpack.

In recent years, however, the trend of hydration vests has proven really popular among long distance runners and even as a casual trail runner, I’ve hopped on the bandwagon myself. Hydration vests are smaller and closer-fitting than packs and fasten to the front of your chest allowing you to carry water and some gear.

So which do you need? If you’re planning on tackling some longer distances on the trails in the near future, read on to discover the differences and similarities between hydration vests and hydration packs.

Hydration vest vs hydration pack: fit and comfort

How a hydration vest or pack fits will play a huge role in how happy you are with it, and this is one of the main differences between the two.

A hydration vest is designed to fit very snugly and close to your body, with two holes for your arms rather than straps like a backpack, fastenings across the front of your chest and straps around the sides where you can cinch it tighter. Once it’s on, it almost fits like a second second and this is in part due to the fact that the material will typically have some stretch factor to it. 

A hydration pack, on the other hand, has a backpack design, with adjustable shoulder straps, a chest strap and a hip belt. None of these components will contain any stretch, since that would defeat the purpose of cinching them close to your body, and though you might be lucky enough to find a pack that fits your body perfectly, the chances are that it won’t be quite as body-hugging as a vest by design.

Comfort really depends on various factors, such as whether it’s well-fitting (vests usually come in small, medium and large sizes) and whether you’re carrying a light or heavy load. An overloaded pack might mean the shoulder straps cut in more, while an overloaded vest may mean the front rides up and cuts into your throat. Basically, to ensure comfort you need to pick a vest or pack that fits, adjust it properly and carry an appropriate amount of gear.

Hydration vest vs hydration pack: bounce factor

The thing you’re most likely trying to avoid with a hydration vest or pack is bouncing, and to avoid it you need something that’s really snug to your body. In this department, the hydration vest wins hands down, because it has such a snug fit.  If you’re racing and want something really precise, we love the Inov-8 Race Ultra Pro 5 for how little bounce there is.

Hydration vest vs hydration pack: storage and capacity

Where vests trail behind hydration packs is that they typically come with less storage. A hydration pack usually has a gear compartment – my Vango Swift 10 has two, plus a small pocket – and is likely to be better for carrying bulkier gear like extra clothing.

A hydration vest will usually just have a compartment for your bladder, then small pockets in the front, where you can stash soft water bottles, if you’re using them, or carry small pieces of gear like running gels, your phone, running gloves or a packable windbreaker. That said, as the gap between the two closes, there are more running vest options out there with a decent amount of storage, such as the Dynafit Alpine 9 which can stretch to quite a lot of gear.

As for water capacity, both a vest and a pack can come in many different sizes for carrying just a few liters of water all the way up to 15 liters, with the OMM MtnFire 15 running vest, for long days on the trail.

Hydration vest vs hydration pack: breathability

A hydration vest might beat a pack in terms of fit and no-bounce factor, but the fact that it has more fabric coming into contact with your body does mean that, overall, you’re likely to get a bit sweatier in a vest than a pack. Of course, either one should be made using breathable mesh, and a vest like the Camelbak Zephyr is great for sweaty days because the mesh is huge, but in general it will be a bit sweatier than a pack.

Hydration vest vs hydration pack: price

When it comes to a high-end, well-featured vest or pack, there isn’t a huge difference in price and you’re probably looking at spending between $100 and $150, but for what it's worth, the cheapest models we’ve tested have both been hydration packs, including the Evadict 10L, so if you’re on a budget, a pack might be a good place to start. That said, there are definitely economical versions of each, though you’ll find that the more you pay, the higher quality and performance.

Hydration vest vs hydration pack: the verdict

More and more, runners are opting for the body-hugging fit and no-bounce factor of running vests, and we can see why. They hold your gear close to your body and we didn’t see a single elite runner at this year’s UTMB donning a hydration pack. That said, if you’re not aiming for an elite trail race and just want a trusty hauler for long days on the trail, there’s a lot to be said for the adjustability, breathability and storage of a running pack.

• Best trail running sunglasses

Silva Strive Light Black 10: first impressions

High-quality headlamp brand Silva’s updated Strive Light Black 10L running backpack has an interesting design incorporating a few lighting-compatible features, making it a great choice for night running with a head lamp.

Let’s go through those aspects first of all. Firstly there’s a small pocket at the back of the neck area for a super-bright headlamp battery pack, plus Velcro attachments down the top of the shoulder strap to secure the cable.

Then there are bands of elastic across the top of the shoulder strap on which you can clip a Silva light to use without the headstrap. There’s also a clip for the little red Silva safety light on the back of the pack, and finally the pack has reflective logos, details and strips for increased visibility.

You can also carry trekking poles diagonally and on the left side of the back of the pack, and there’s a dual entrance mesh back pocket to shove your running jacket into when things warm up.

The two supplied 240ml soft bottles are not really enough for running through the night. The pockets fit 500ml bottles at a squeeze, so future updates of the pack would benefit from including those, in my opinion. There could also be bigger pockets up front, and the weatherproof fabric one on the right would benefit from a water-resistant zip.

Silva Strive Light Black 10: on the trails

I really enjoyed using this pack for night running and fully appreciate the benefits of all the unique lighting features. In particular I like the pocket at the back of the neck area for the larger battery packs you get with ultra bright head torches, and the handy Velcro cable routers on the shoulder strap. 

This is not a feature every pack has and certainly makes for very easy, efficient and tidy night running with those high-powered headlamps. The back pocket for the jacket is also super handy, and the pack is comfy and well-sized. 

However, I really feel that the small-sized bottles and front pockets let this pack down – if you’re carrying a 10L backpack you’re most probably out for a while or possibly doing a race, so 1L is the minimum water you’d want to be able to carry.

The front pockets do fit 500ml bottles, so it seems odd to supply two bottles that only hold 240ml.

Silva is also missing a trick with the tiny stretch mesh pocket on the side of the bottle pocket – this could easily be a great deal larger to carry more snacks up front.

Finally the water-resistant fabric pocket on the right where the company suggests you carry your phone really could do with a water-resistant zip, though if the rain really starts to fall you’d still need to put that phone in a small waterproof bag to guarantee its safety.

• How Advnture tests products

Nathan Crossover Pack 10L: first impressions

The Nathan Crossover Pack 10L is a roomy running backpack that's a great option for long adventures and run commuting, and soon became my go-to bag for any run where I wanted to take water and extra layers.

There's heaps of space inside for your jacket, first aid kit, snacks and other essentials, and the bag can be compressed using a system of bungee cords. You can also use the cords for extra storage by stuffing your running jacket underneath them before tightening.

The Nathan Crossover Pack 10L is supplied with its own hydration bladder, which sits neatly in a pocket against your back and is held in place with a pair of Velcro tabs that thread through the top. The hose threads through elastic straps on the straps, and is secured to your chest with a magnetic clip.

The bag has two chest straps and a waist belt, which keep it securely in place. The chest straps slide up and down, helping you get a comfortable fit, but will likely work better if you don't have breasts, as you'll be able to spread the load more evenly across your chest (as demonstrated by the model on Nathan's website).

There are two spacious zipped pockets on the front, which are ideal for stashing energy gels or your phone. There are also stretchy side pockets that fasten with a small dab of Velcro, which cyclists will find handy for storing a jersey or windproof jacket. They're also a useful place to stuff your running gloves or a hat during the shoulder seasons once you've warmed up.

Opening the bag, you'll find a small pouch sewn in at the top beside the zipper. This looks like it should be the right size for keys, but here's no means of fastening it, so they'll just fall out mid-run and wind up at the bottom of the pack. Credit cards fit inside, but fall out when you open the pack. It's a bit of a mystery, but you could add a self-adhesive Velcro dot to make it more functional.

Nathan Crossover Pack 10L: on the trails

I've been using the Nathan Crossover Pack 10L for months, and it's easily one of the most comfortable running backpacks I've ever used. It sits firmly in place, and unlike some bags, has never chafed my shoulders even on long runs while wearing a tank top. I've worn it for a couple of half marathons in total comfort.

The sheer amount of space inside is incredibly convenient, and meant I could easily carry a fleece jacket for after the run, a windproof, and still have space for a first aid kit and a friend's jacket.

It's not without its quirks, though. Once the shoulder straps were secure, I found that the hip belt wanted to settle around the bottom of my ribs rather than around my waist, as you can see in the photo at the top of this article. I have quite a long torso, so this might not be a problem for differently shaped runners, but I found it easiest to leave the belt clipped together at the back of the pack and just use the twin chest straps to keep it in place unless it was fully loaded.

I didn't love the hydration bladder supplied with the bag, either. It was awkward to close, and the hose was too long for comfort when running, having to be looped over your chest and secured on your shoulder. However, the pack worked perfectly with my Osprey 2L bladder inside instead. The Velcro loops are in the right place to secure it inside, and it's compatible with Osprey's hose magnet.

Once you've got your hydration setup sorted, the Nathan Crossover Pack is spacious enough to work for day hikes, particularly in summer when you want places to stuff lightweight layers. It isn't waterproof though, and doesn't come with a rain cover, which is a shame since there's plenty of room for one. I managed by putting my Osprey backpack's rain cover over the top.

These might seem like a lot of quibbles, but the Nathan Crossover Pack really is an excellent, versatile running backpack, and I'm thinking about picking up my own now that I've finished testing the review sample. I'd recommend trying one out for fit before investing, though. It's not a cheap bag, and how comfortable you'll find it will depend on your anatomy.

• How Advnture tests products

When you start to increase your distances, running with a hydration pack seems like a great idea. Want to avoid dehydration? Don’t want to have to remove your water bottle from your vest each time you want to take a swig? Just fill up a hydration bladder with lovely cold water, strap it onto your back, sling the straw over your shoulder and you can sip without breaking stride. Sold. 

To be honest, I ran without water for years, since I never went for much more than an hour and avoided really hot conditions. But lately, I’ve been heading out on longer adventures in my trail running shoes to discover new routes. With the weather heating up, I know I can’t just rely on taking a wild swim at the end to cool off and it’s important to load up with water. 

So one day, I happily loaded up my Vango Sprint 3 hydration pack and headed out on the West Highland Way. As soon as I started running, I was confused and then horrified by the deafening sound of my water sloshing around inside my water reservoir. Not only did this aquatic cacophony assault the local wildlife and send them scampering deeper into the brush, every hiker I passed looked at me like I was an absolute madwoman.

I ended up dumping out my bladder about half way through to avoid any further disruption or embarrassment, and vowed to figure out if and how runners can wear a hydration pack without causing such a scene.

Once home, I phoned around a few friends to ask how they dealt with it, and was at least reassured to learn that such a mortifying experience is actually just part of running with a hydration pack. All advised me that there’s no way to silence it, but I should squeeze the air out before sealing the bladder, which had already occurred to me. So on my next attempt, I dutifully filled my hydration bladder at the sink, held it against my chest and gently squeezed it with one arm, which resulted in the water spilling all over my running top. When I got out on the trail, not only was I wet but my water was still sloshing around.

Incensed, I called my friend Brian, an ultra runner based up in the Highlands of Scotland and demanded he tell me if there was any secret to doing it properly. Again, he explained that you can’t really fully avoid the slosh, but shared an apparently well-known trail runners’ approach with me to reduce the volume of your hydrated adventures and I’m guessing you’ll want to know it too if you’ve been dealing with annoying sloshing. 

This method, which I've outlined below, doesn’t completely eliminate the commotion, but I’ve been doing it for months now and it does turn the volume down considerably, is super easy and won’t soak your clothes in the process.

Running with a hydration pack: how to stop the slosh

1. Fill your hydration bladder with water and seal it.
2. Turn the bladder upside down (so the part where the tube connects to the bladder is facing down towards the floor).
3. Insert the valve into your mouth and suck out all the air. Note that if there’s water in the tube, you’ll have to clear it first.
4. Turn your bladder the right way round and check you can drink from it. If you can’t, you've just created a vacuum, making it difficult to extract any water when you’re on the run, so just turn it upside down again and blow a little air back in.
5. Hit the trail! Obviously, once you’ve drunk a substantial amount of your water, you can expect the dreaded clamor behind you to return, so you’ll need to take your pack off, turn it upside down and repeat the process, learn to deal with it, or put your headphones in and drown out that irritating racket.

Deuter Ascender 7: first impressions

The Deuter Ascender 7 marks an impressive debut into the trail running kit market from a German brand that has a reputation for making some of the most robust and comfortable backpacks around. So will we be adding it our next best running backpacks update? Read on…

The Ascender comes in both a 13L and 7L model, the one we are reviewing here, so you can pick your pack size depending on how much stuff you plan on taking. Both deliver on everything you’d expect from Deuter. For most trail runners, however, the 7L model offers all the space you need for snacks, extra layers, power banks and water, featuring thoughtfully designed storage pockets and a huge zipped compartment at the back (see also: What to take trail running: seven things to pack for a long-distance run).

Deuter Ascender 7: on the trails

The first thing that struck me when I used the Ascender 7 on a 20km trail run in April was how incredibly comfortable the pack is to carry. As it only comes in one size, I was sceptical that the fit would be right for me (as I tend to run large in all trail running apparel). But thanks to the ample customization options and the ability to easily cinch everything down the pack fitted me like a glove straight out of the box. In fact, it’s by far the most comfortable pack I’ve ever worn, beating packs I’d previously worn from the likes of Salomon and OMM. 

One thing I love about it is the ability to tighten up the back compartment to fit whatever size load you’re carrying. Thanks to a cleverly designed drawcord system, the pack can be pulled tight when you’re not carrying much, which makes it just as comfortable to carry on short training runs as it is on long mountain days.

Interestingly, the Ascender 7 also comes with a stash pocket for trekking poles. Featuring a large recess to dump your poles into and two cleverly designed pole straps, you can clip them on without having to slow down, and you can unclip them just as easily. During one particularly hilly run, I tried this out with one pole (I never run with two), and I was incredibly impressed with how comfortable this feels. Somehow, you don’t even notice the 300g (10.6oz) aluminum rod swinging from your chest, making it a great option for runners who like to take one (or even two) poles with them.

Inside the pack, the Ascender 7 features a sliding pocket ideal for a hydration bladder, a zipped pocket for storing valuables and a large central pocket for storing any extra layers you want to take with you on trail. Additionally, as has become a common feature on trail running packs of late, the back foam is fully removable, helping you to save a few crucial grams if that’s important to you. For me, I found the Ascender 7 to be much more comfortable with the foam insert, and it makes a handy sit pad!

On the outside of the pack, you’ve got three stash pockets. In my experience, this is enough for carrying snacks, keys and mobile phones, though you may need to resort to storing things in the main compartment if you’re out on really long runs. On the shoulder straps, you can comfortably carry two 500ml (16 fl oz) soft flasks.

Durability

As it weighs only 315 grams (11.1oz), you might think that the Ascender 7 isn’t going to be particularly robust. The pack is manufactured from 700 denier polyamide fibers, however, which makes for a tough yet ultra lightweight pack. I’ve tossed, dropped and scuffed this thing, and it still looks good as new. Naturally, you’re not going to want to put it through as much punishment as Deuter’s more robust range of backpacking rucksacks, but I’m confident that the Ascender can cope with everything trail runners will be throwing at it and more. What’s more, the pack is fully bluesign certified being made from 100% recycled materials. 

• How Advnture tests products

CamelBak Zephyr Pro Vest: first impressions

The new, updated CamelBak Zephyr Pro 12L running vest/hydration pack has a lot of great features. At 10.5oz / 299g it’s light for its capacity, the easy-to-use side adjustment straps mean it’s one-size-fits-all, and the 3D mesh venting down the back and under the shoulder straps is specifically designed for the different sweat areas of male and female bodies, based on CamelBak’s own body mapping research.

Inside the right-hand zip pocket there’s a smartphone pouch with a grippy silicone edge to keep your device in place, and the back of the pocket is made from water-resistant material. At the front is a water-resistant pocket that would be ideal for electrolyte and salt tablets, jelly babies and other small sweet snacks.

The pack is compatible with the two 500ml soft bottles that it comes with, or a hydration bladder (not included). The large, zipped back compartment is easily large enough for spare clothes, a first aid kit and food. On the outside of the back compartment are two stretch pockets, one across the middle and one at the base that will fit a lightweight waterproof jacket or rain pants, with silicone grippers at the edges of each pocket so kit doesn’t slide out. Finally there’s an included trekking pole quiver secured by poppers diagonally behind the pack.

CamelBak Zephyr Pro Vest: on the trails

Having used the previous version of the Camelbak Zephyr Pro 12, it was great to discover that this updated version has silicone grippers that stop kit slipping out of the elasticated pockets. Also welcome were the water-resistant pockets up front for sweets and electrolyte tablets, and extra reflectivity to make the zippers easier to see by headlamp light during night races, as well as adding to your safety in traffic. The new pole quiver is also a great idea – we wish we could take it and hook it on to other running packs too but that would mean a bit of sewing to accommodate the popper points! 

The quiver clips on easily to either side of the pack depending on your favored hand, and after a bit of practice it’s relatively easy to get poles in and out – quicker than looping them into a bungee to store them on the shoulder straps or at the base of the pack behind you. Having said that, the quiver does bounce around a little bit.

The only downside in our view is the lack of underarm side pockets, which is due to the adjustment straps that are situated there instead. While we understand this makes the pack one-size-fits-all and is great for larger runners who don’t fit into the standard vest sizes, this area is prime real estate for easily accessible side pockets containing snacks and small accessories like gloves, hat, map and compass. It would be great if CamelBak made extra side pockets to clip onto these straps – then we’d be interested in using this pack on our ultras this year.

• How Advnture tests products

inov-8 Ultrapac Pro 2in1: first impressions 

The inov-8 Ultrapac Pro 2in1 is a fantastic update to the Inov-8 Race Ultra Pro 2in1, which earned a place our best hydration packs guide. It’s a wonderfully versatile pack for all runners – now you don’t have to invest in one small 5L vest plus a larger 12L vest for carrying more kit (for, say, when winter comes). One pack does both.

The most significant update is how easy it is to fix the 7L extension compartment to the 5L vest – it used to be fiddly with cold hands or running gloves on, but now it’s a very easy, thanks to a new long slider plus a popper to further secure the two together. 

As with the previous pack you can carry the two included 500ml soft bottles in either the higher front pockets or lower front pockets (a location particularly comfy for larger-chested ladies). There are also two different attachments for carrying poles, either down the sides of the shoulder straps or across the back in wide elastic loops. 

This running pack is a little heavier than average for the size. However, the material feels very robust and strong. The fit is good, with inov-8’s new zoned stretch areas at the back and around the waist. But, as with the previous incarnation, we feel they should also make a size XS to cater for smaller, slimmer runners.

inov-8 Ultrapac Pro 2in1: on the trails

We really like the increased ease with which you can change the pack from 5L to 12L. It really feels like inov-8 have listened to feedback from runners and addressed the difficulty of attaching and detaching the extension pack with the old inov-8 Race Ultra Pro 2in1, and they’ve streamlined the process in the new UltraPac Pro 2in1. 

The slider and popper system is so intuitive and easy to use, it means you can now seriously consider using the 7L extension as a drop bag and attaching it mid-race, should you want. The previous smaller capacity was also 2L, so this increase to a more useful 5L was great for shorter runs close to home on the muddy Lincolnshire fields, while the extra 7L got me through longer training runs for the Manx Mountain Marathon 50k. Being a tester with boobs up front I also very much enjoy the lower-front pockets option for the soft bottles. The bottles now also have a tapered end, which makes them easier to insert into whichever front pocket you decide upon.

The price is high, yes, but you do get two very useful and robust packs in one, with recycled content in all the main materials. The side pole attachments are useful for when you’re actually running, but the wide elastic loops at the rear are harder to poke poles into – you’d be very adept if you could manage this while running. These would be easier to use if they were adjustable straps as they’re quite tight to thread both poles into. 

You don’t really feel the weight being slightly on the higher side as you run because the pack molds well to the body. I just feel there could also be an XS size; I tested the size S, and at a size 12 I was by no means the smallest, slimmest runner out there.

• How Advnture tests products

OMM MtnFire 15: first impressions 

Look no further than the OMM MtnFire 15 if you’re looking for a highly water-resistant, durable yet lightweight hydration pack with enough room to carry everything for a long, remote winter run or even a mountain marathon. 

It’s available in three sizes – small, medium and large – making it a good fit for a wide range of body shapes both male and female despite the unisex (read men’s) fit. At 311g including the two provided 350ml FlexiFlask soft bottles this is a really light pack for such a large capacity. 

There are plenty of useful and easily-accessed pockets up front including one with a zip which is always a must for important items like phones, keys and cards. The elasticated chest clip at the top and lower clip strap are very easy to use and tighten, and even when fully loaded the pack stays sat on your back nicely thanks to the bungee compression system around the base of the pack.

The waterproofed base is a really nice touch for extra protection when popping it down on wet ground. The roll-top closure means you can compress the size of the pack to carry less kit without things bouncing around inside, but it does mean you can’t stuff things into the main compartment while on the move. If you don’t have a hydration bladder in the sleeve you could shove a lightweight jacket down there on the fly, though.

OMM MtnFire 15: on the trails

Running around the windy Peak District and muddy Lincolnshire trails with this pack was great; you don’t even feel it’s there even with a fair weight in the main compartment, and we mean an actual weight from a dumbbell! 

While winter training for the UTS 50k and Lakeland 50 this year, we were able to fit everything needed for a long run in all the pockets, plus a 2kg dumbbell weight wrapped in a pair of waterproof trousers to up the training ante. We were very pleased at the stability of the pack on our back while running up and down hills and over all types of rocky terrain.

We would prefer it to come with 500ml soft bottles rather than 350ml, as the pockets do fit the larger bottles and you can always under-fill them with the option to top up later. The waist-side pockets might be even easier accessed and more secure opening from the top rather than the sides, but having said that nothing ever fell out of them and the right side has a zip for extra security.

The roll top is great for securing a lighter load too, making this pack very versatile for all distances, and we really liked the waterproofed base for extra protection when sorting things out in the bag on the wet grass or muddy ground. We just wonder where we should secure running poles should we use this one on a longer ultra - sewing on some loops wouldn’t be too much of a problem.

• How Advnture tests products

This article is part of Advnture's Trail Running Week 2023 (running from Monday 27 March to Sunday 2 April), our in-depth look at how to train smarter, choose the right gear, and have fun when things get muddy.

Ultimate Performance Aire Flex: first impressions 

The Ultimate Performance Aire Flex 18L is an interesting multi-sport pack rather than a hydration pack specifically for running. If you’re only into running, look elsewhere now because you can find much lighter packs than this 570g / 20.1oz specimen, with more easily accessible pockets up front.

However, if you want a pack that will also work for mountain biking this could be for you. One upside to the heavier weight is that the pack does feel bombproof with good quality zips and thick, densely woven fabric – you’re not going to rip this if you snag it on a bramble. 

This pack will also suit you if you’re a larger person who struggles to find a good fit in the waistcoat-style running packs as the side straps provide a great range of adjustment up to XXXL; sadly this does mean this pack misses out on the opportunity for a couple of pockets around the waist, but you can’t have both features. 

It’s great that a pack that has such a low price tag comes with two 500ml FlexiFlasks plus straws. However, the bottles somewhat obscure the two pockets behind them, and the stretch pocket on front of the bottles is a little on the small size.

Ultimate Performance Aire Flex: on the trails

There are certain things this pack does really well, but we think there’s an opportunity to make the next version even better for runners with a few small tweaks. 

Although a little on the heavy side for runners, it’s a great price for a multi-sport pack with a great capacity, durability and a way to carry a helmet. The adjustability at the waist is also a plus point if you prefer that to having a couple of pockets there (good for larger sportspeople and / or mountain bikers). There’s plenty of room for a great deal of kit, and a hydration bladder compartment too if needed, while the reflective details are great for being seen on dark nights.

The front zip pockets are good for long items like your smartphone, gels or cereal bars and it’s really easy to drink on the move with the bottle straws. However, the elasticated pocket right behind each bottle is pretty much impossible to access, especially when the bottles are full of water, so we think these should be moved in front to replace the stretch pockets at the base, which are a little on the small size currently. If these were twice the size and they would happily take a pair of light running gloves and some snacks, which runners in particular appreciate being easy to access up front.

• How Advnture tests products

Vango Swift 10 hydration pack: first impressions

Just as the name suggests, the Swift 10 is a hydration pack that lets you move fast while carrying all the essentials plus enough water for a long run. Two roomy storage compartments let you carry dry clothing along with two liters of water, while mesh internal pockets prevent your keys from jangling around and keep your kit organized. An adjustable chest and waist belt secure this running backpack snug to your body, while the Airmesh back keeps you cool and dry. Best of all, this pack doesn’t bounce around when you’re moving fast.

Two additional zipped pockets in the hip belt keep essential gear easy to reach and are just big enough to squeeze your smart phone in, if it’s not too giant. Reflective details help to keep you safe if you’re out on the roads after dark. At just one size, this may not fit all bodies and the hip belt might not tighten enough for petite runners, but for an easy-to-use storage and hydration solution, you’ll struggle to find anything at a better price.

Vango Swift 10 hydration pack: in the field 

I don’t often run with a backpack, and that’s partly because my typical run is 10km, but it’s also because I’ve yet to find a decent running backpack. The Swift 10 may have solved that problem for me. This lightweight, breathable running backpack has enough storage space to fit a change of clothes and carry plenty of water and doesn’t bounce around or chafe.

Here’s how it performed:

Storage and weight 

I loaded this pack up to run the Kelly Cut recently with water, a pair of leggings, a T-shirt and my down jacket, plus essentials like my wallet and keys. I was running with music, so I put my iPhone in one of the hip belt pockets where I was pleased to see it fits, but if you have a giant phone it definitely won’t. Anyway, with this load it easily fit everything I wanted plus it was fairly full, which meant my gear wasn’t bouncing around once I got going.

I know there are lighter running backpacks out there, and if you’re on a serious fastpacking adventure those couple of extra ounces might be a dealbreaker to you, but for my purposes I don’t notice the weight at all.

 Comfort and fit 

This fits nice and snug to my back once the hip and chest straps are fastened, and  very secure. I don’t even notice it on my back, which is surely a good sign, though on a long run it does rub a little on either side of my neck.

This pack only comes in one size and I felt like for my proportions, the hip belt on its tightest setting was on the very edge of not quite being tight enough. I’m on the smaller side, but if you’re petite I don’t think this will be small enough to fit snugly.

 Waterproofing and breathability 

This backpack isn’t waterproof, but I’ve had it out in light rain and mistakenly thrown it down on sodden ground while I was changing, and all of my gear has come out bone dry. Further, it benefits from a mesh back panel and shoulder straps, so it’s nice and breathable on warmer runs.

Value

I have to say, for the low price this is an absolute steal. It seems to boast a good strength-to-weight ratio so it should hold up to carrying your gear. I’m sure that some of the much higher priced running backpacks out there are better quality, but if you, like me, just occasionally want to be able to carry some gear and water comfortably on a run, this packs everything you need without breaking the bank.

Pockets and storage 

This jacket could perhaps benefit from an easy-to-reach chest pocket, but the two hand pockets are big enough to hold anything I’d want to put in them (including my iPhone and gloves). 

• How Advnture tests products

Vango Sprint 3 hydration pack: first impressions

With the Sprint 3, Vango has focused on function and designed a hydration pack that will accomplish your hydration needs without slowing you down. This sleek and lightweight hydration pack contours nicely to your body and feels really comfortable even when the bladder is full on a long run, thanks in part to the breathable ventilated back system. The drinking tube comes with a sealable cap to prevent you from leaking water during transport, the roll-top bladder is easy to use and doesn’t spill, and reflective details help with visibility for road runners.

This is a small, no-frills affair. You’ll find a small zipped pocket just big enough for your keys and phone and if you want to use it to carry any other gear, such as a running jacket, you’ll need to lash it to the outside of the pack using the shock cord webbing, which won’t provide any rain protection. However, if all you want is the ability to comfortably and easily carry a couple of liters of water, you’ll get everything you need from this hydration pack for a low price.

Vango Sprint 3 hydration pack: in the field 

I’ve been testing the Vango Sprint 3 hydration pack on my longer trails runs for a few weeks, and though it’s very small, I give it high marks for comfort, ease of use and weight

Starting with what I like about it, it fits really nicely to my body and, even when the bladder is full, is really comfortable to run in. Though the weather has turned colder lately, I’ve worn it for a few late season warm runs and it’s definitely breathable on sweaty days. It comes in one size so I can imagine for someone much bigger than me, it might be too small, but the straps do offer a lot of wiggle room, so perhaps it really does work for all bodies.

It’s also easy to use, which might seem like an odd thing to comment on, but I’ve tried running backpacks that were a bit like trying to solve a Rubix cube, so this came as a relief to me. The bladder is easy to remove and fill, even with its roll top design instead of the usual screw top. The straps are all easy to adjust and the bladder so far seems to be leak-resistant. Once I removed the plastic wrap from the drinking tube (remember to do this before you set off), I was pleased to find that there was barely any plastic taste at all on my first run with it.  

At under half a kilo, it really doesn’t add any significant weight when it’s empty, which is ideal, but this is also because it’s fairly light on features, which brings me to the characteristics that don’t work as well for me. If the bladder is full, there really isn’t any space at all to cram in any running gear – the idea is that you use the external cord webbing. This works pretty well, but of course doesn’t protect your gear from the elements. There is a small pocket for my phone and keys, but basically I use this for hydration only. The tube is perhaps a little long and unwieldy for my liking, but I just tuck it into the hip belt and there’s no problem there. 

Overall, you probably can’t find a hydration pack at a better price and if you’re just looking for something comfortable and lightweight to carry water in, I think you’ll be pleased.

Here’s how it performed:

Comfort and breathability

Fits really well and stays put with no rubbing or chafing, and the breathable back panel works well on hot days. 

Weight and capacity

Very lightweight when empty, not much room for anything other than water, but storage webbing works quite well. 

Durability 

Too soon to tell, but the fabric and stitching on the backpack and the bladder and tube all seem sturdy enough.

• How Advnture tests products

The best hydration packs allow you to, above all else, stay hydrated on the trails during the hot summer months. As well as conveniently storing and giving you access to your liquid supplies, they're also designed to store all your snacks, gels, spare clothing and emergency items.

Of course, the very best hydration packs do all this while being beautifully balanced and feeling like they're barely there. The last thing you want on a long run is a pack that bounces around and rubs against your skin. Fortunately, running vest design has come a long way over the last fifteen years and the packs featured here fit wonderfully.

Just as with the best hiking backpacks, there's a wide range of capacities to choose from. Our selection ranges from 5 liters right the way up to 12 liters and the featured models often have different capacity options too.

So, whether you're after a minimal vest for your water requirements and not much more, or a glorified daypack for long wilderness runs, you'll find what you're looking for in our roundup of the best hydration packs.

Our favorite packs are Osprey's Duro 6 (Dyna for women) and Camelbak's Ultra Pro Vest, both of which are supremely comfortable on the trails. 

High performance hydration packs

The Duro 6 is perfectly sized to hold everything you need for a long, adventurous run without weighing you down. It’s multiple storage solutions, customisable fit and trail-ready hydration flasks make it a great option. Fabric wise, Osprey get a tick in the sustainability stakes thanks to the fact that the Duro is made entirely from recycled materials. There are no less than twelve compartments, with two main zippered compartments, a zippered slash pocket for your phone and nine stretchy open pockets for food, drink and other bits and bobs.

Of course, all this mesh and the pack’s lightweight qualities means everything will get wet in a deluge, so you may want to consider packing a couple of dry bags for your valuables if serious rain is on the cards. The chest straps are fully customisable, allowing you to tighten things to your desired fit and you can even move the attachment points up and down. There’s also a trekking pole / ice axe attachment system on either side, with elasticated cinches that are quick and easy to manipulate and elasticated straps that hold the shafts off to the side.

While the Duro is marketed as unisex, for women there's also the option of the female-specific Dyna pack.

Read our full Osprey Duro 6 hydration pack review

We found this running pack to be the perfect size and fit for whole day runs in the hills and mountains using lightweight kit. The Camelbak Ultra Pro comes in male and female specific fits to guarantee the best comfort. The 3D micro-mesh ventilated back and shoulder straps make it one of the most cool vest to wear in hotter conditions. We think that the combination of four pockets up front is very pleasing: two bottle pockets with elasticated tops to keep the included two 500ml soft bottles secure; one zippered smartphone pocket and one very stretchy elasticated pocket that will take a lightweight running jacket or gloves and a hat. 

At each side are two stretch-elastic pockets, one that goes all the way through the base of the rear compartment to meet the other side – we found it easy to thread a waterproof jacket through while on the move. The main compartment has two bungees for trekking poles to run diagonally across the back, and the only real downside of this otherwise perfect pack is that the main compartment could be made of a stretchy fabric to jam in some more kit and food.

Read our full Camelbak Ultra Pro Vest review

A really fantastic, versatile, hard-wearing yet lightweight larger-capacity running pack with all the right features in the right places, that will also fold down to secure a smaller load for shorter runs too. It's very reasonably priced and a pack that we highly recommend.

It’s available in three sizes – small, medium and large – making it a good fit for a wide range of body shapes both male and female despite the unisex (read men’s) fit. At 311g, including the two provided 350ml FlexiFlask soft bottles, this is a really light pack for such a large capacity. 

There are plenty of useful and easily-accessed pockets up front including one with a zip which is always a must for important items like phones, keys and cards. We found the elasticated chest clip at the top and lower clip strap very easy to use and tighten, and even when fully loaded the pack stayed nicely sat on our back thanks to the bungee compression system around the base of the pack.

The waterproofed base is a really nice touch for extra protection when popping it down on wet ground. The roll-top closure means you can compress the size of the pack to carry less kit without things bouncing around inside.

Read our full OMM MtnFire 15 running vest review

Hydration packs with compression

This hydration vest has a truly innovative and unique fit that some runners might find sets this pack above all others: the Comfort Cinch allows you to pull the waist area of the pack in from behind, using two dangling threads that concertina a criss-cross of string attaching the waist band to the base of the main compartment. No other race vest we’ve tested has this feature and for some it will make the fit absolutely perfect, while others will not have noticed anything lacking fit-wise in the packs without this functionality. If you have problems with the fit of your current pack, this is the one to consider. 

Even without this feature it’s a fantastically designed pack with plenty of pockets up front, zipped side pockets, stretchy main compartment and bungee criss-crossing the back for extra stuff-storage that you can access on the move. It also comes with two robust 500ml bottles so you don’t have to purchase them separately. Equally it is compatible with a 2L reservoir (not supplied). The adjustable chest straps hook on to a lightweight webbing making these operable with one hand, and there’s room for poles on the shoulder straps too, easily stowable and accessible up front.

Read our full Ultimate Direction Race Vest/Vesta 5.0 review

Versatile hydration packs

A fantastic, durable and comfy dual-capacity running pack for short and long runs, with two soft-bottle storage and two pole attachment options. The inov-8 Ultrapac Pro 2in1 is a fantastic update to the Inov-8 Race Ultra Pro 2in1. It’s a wonderfully versatile pack for all runners – now you don’t have to invest in one small 5L vest plus a larger 12L vest for carrying more kit (for, say, when winter comes). One pack does both.

The most significant update is how easy it is to fix the 7L extension compartment to the 5L vest – it used to be fiddly with cold hands or running gloves on, but now it’s a very easy, thanks to a new long slider plus a popper to further secure the two together. 

As with the previous pack you can carry the two included 500ml soft bottles in either the higher front pockets or lower front pockets (a location particularly comfy for larger-chested ladies). There are also two different attachments for carrying poles, either down the sides of the shoulder straps or across the back in wide elastic loops.

It's a little heavier than average, though the material feels robust and strong. While the fit is good, we feel they should also make a size XS to cater for smaller, slimmer runners.

Read our full inov-8 Ultrapac Pro 2in1 review

Lightweight hydration packs

Harrier is a relatively new UK brand that focuses on trail running gear. Its unisex hydration pack is sold in four sizes with the aim of offering a size to neatly fit a range of people. There are many features including width adjustable elastic chest straps, which can also be adjusted up and down the front of the pack. The main compartment area is split into two, which we found offered us good organisation options. A bungee cord on the back can be cinched and secured around additional items, such as a waterproof jacket. There are other pockets such as stretchy mesh zipped side pockets and front stuff pockets with silicon grippers. 

There are different hydration options, including front pockets for two 500ml or 300ml soft flasks and a 1.5-liter or 2-liter bladder in a separate back compartment (none of which are included). The fabric of this hydration pack is treated with DWR (durable water repellent) for water resistance, although it’s not waterproof. There are also three options for stowing poles when not in use: at the front vertical, back horizontal and side horizontal. On top of all this, there are other details including a zipped, water-resistant phone pocket, a secure key clip inner pocket, grippy zippers and gel pockets.

Read our full Harrier Kinder 10L Race Vest review

An extremely innovative piece of kit that will appeal to lightweight enthusiasts, this vest is just an incredible 125g/4.4oz on the scales – almost half the weight of most of the other running packs / race vests on the market. Fans of versatility will also enjoy the option to add another 5L capacity using Compressor Pod extension (£28). This loops on via a strong, orange string which we found could be a little fiddly with cold hands, but its a fantastic idea to be able to leave this somewhere part way round a long run or with a race crew for a speedy top up of fuel or kit mid-way. 

The four pockets up front are quite small so they’re a best fit for 350ml soft flasks (sold separately £13 each no straw, £18 each with straw extension), or we were able to fit a 2L hydration bladder in the main rear compartment (£26). The stretchy fabric takes a fair amount of lightweight kit and snacks for fuel and the fit is good for all due to the elasticated adjusters at each side, however this does mean we lacked two side pockets.

Read our full OMM TrailFire Vest review

This breathable unisex hydration pack is so comfortable and airy, we hardly knew we were wearing it. The super-light, meshy material at the shoulders and back keep things cool as well. We found this smart design offers surprisingly ample space for fuel and gear storage, with two bigger pockets in back to stow a jacket or bulkier gear, and six smaller pockets up front for easy access. There’s even an attachment for trekking poles and a safety whistle, for adventurers heading into the wild. 

We noted some bounce when moving fast on a trail run, but the adjustable chest straps – while not at all easy to move up and down – helped mitigate that movement, offering a secure, nuanced fit to accommodate a variety of shapes and sizes. The vest comes with two soft bottles that sit comfortably in deep pockets up front, but there’s room in back for a bladder if you prefer. A smart piece of kit that’s well-suited to running and shorter days out on the trail.

Read our full Camelbak Zephyr Vest review

Hydration packs for night running

This is a really well-designed, good value 5L vest with a lot of good features, especially for night running (besides its compasses, Silva is best known for their high quality headtorches/headlamps). To help you run further in the dark for longer Silva have a battery pocket high up in the back compartment and you can thread the cable through either of the shoulder straps (the same hole as for the hydration bladder tube if needed). 

This means we were able to use a super bright headtorch (like the Silva Trail Runner Free) with a heavier battery (so a longer, brighter burn time) without wearing it on our heads. There’s also a clip to hook on a light to the back of the pack for even more visibility, plus reflective details to keep you safe on road sections and city commutes. Two soft bottles are included but they are a little smaller than the rest here at 240ml each rather than the usual 500ml, and the openings are narrow, which we found made it harder to refill them or pour electrolyte or energy powders into them. One great feature is the stretchy dual access rear pocket at the base of the main compartment, which you can access with either hand on the move and shove a jacket inside quickly and securely.

Read our full Silva Strive Light 5 review

Hydration packs for storage capacity

Just as the name suggests, the Swift 10 is a hydration pack that lets you move fast while carrying all the essentials plus enough water for a long run. Two roomy storage compartments let us carry our dry clothing along with two liters of water, while mesh internal pockets prevented our keys from jangling around and kept everything organized. An adjustable chest and waist belt secure this running backpack snug to the body, while the Airmesh back kept us cool and dry. Best of all, we found this pack didn't bounce around when we were moving fast.

Two additional zipped pockets in the hip belt keep essential gear easy to reach and are just big enough to squeeze your smart phone in, if it’s not too giant. Reflective details help to keep you safe if you’re out on the roads after dark. At just one size, this may not fit all bodies and the hip belt might not tighten enough for petite runners, but for an easy-to-use storage and hydration solution, you’ll struggle to find anything at a better price.

Read our full Vango Swift 10 hydration pack review

The Gecko VP 5+ immediately presents as a good-looking and highly functional vest pack for female and male runners. The body-hugging vest pack is made with a so-called ‘Raptor Flex’ four-way stretch fabric and has an air-mesh harness. The chest fixings comprise two narrow ‘minimalist’ stretch straps with multiple attachment points and a lower ‘Active Strap’ with Velcro for quick closure and release. There are open-top mesh pockets on the chest straps for two 500ml soft flasks and an internal pocket in the rear for a hydration bladder. 

Storage is generous: there is space for at least five liters of volume in the pack divided into a range of compartments. A main zipped rear pocket is supplemented by a large open-top stretch pocket. In addition, there are two smaller zipped pockets at the front and various stretch mesh pockets across the rest of the pack designed for easy access while running. Other details include an integrated bungee for external storage and/or compression, a key clip, a removable whistle and pole attachment points.

Read our full Montane Gecko VP 5+ review

This 9L volume hydration pack boasts numerous compartments and pockets, with a main compartment, (zipped at the top), as well as a velcro-topped stretchy outer pocket, which would be useful for quickly stashing clothing that you might need to access in a hurry. There are also mesh pockets for four soft drinking flasks – two 500ml and two 250ml – at the front of the shoulder straps. 

We had the options of further adding a hydration bladder (not included) to the inside of the pack, and running a drinking tube out through a purpose-designed slot at the top of a shoulder. An internal zipped pocket is waterproof and can fit a large smart phone. There are two trekking pole attachment points, one for speed and one at the rear, the latter of which requires you to take off the pack. Other features include a small whistle and a reflective logo.

Read our full Dynafit Alpine 9 review

Hydration packs for a precise fit

For trail racers who prefer to carry their liquid in soft flasks instead of a hydration reservoir, the Race Ultra Pro 5 Vest is a very good option. It carries its two 500ml soft flasks in an angled position lower on the chest, but the liquid is easily accessible from the flasks long drinking tubes. We found it to be a bit of a bare-bones, minimalistic pack, but there’s also a surprising amount of storage in four elastic mesh pouches and three zippered pockets. 

But the best part of this pack is that, no matter how full, it rides close to the body and we found it didn’t bounce. There are also dedicated cinch cord straps for stowing collapsible trekking poles. All of those smart, intricate storage and design elements allowed us to run uninhibitedly without worrying about the pack or its contents. There is room for a hydration reservoir and tube management ports, but, unfortunately, no hook or clip to hold the reservoir in place. The Race Ultra Pro 5 Vest is ideal for ultra-distance races, but it could be used for training runs, too.

Read our full inov-8 Race Ultra Pro 5 Vest review

Budget hydration pack

This well-thought-through hydration pack has space for two liters of water in total – one liter is carried in the internal bladder (which is included) and two 500ml flasks (purchased separately) can be carried at the front of the bag. As well as the two front mesh pockets designed for the soft flasks, there are four more mesh pockets that we found useful for gels, bars and a collapsible beaker. These are also located at the front of the pack for ease of access without taking off the pack. There's a main zipped compartment and inside that a zipped secure pocket for valuables (smartphone, keys, survival blanket and so on). 

On the outside is a larger mesh pocket, which offered us a place for a waterproof jacket or hat and gloves. The fit is quite neat. I am a UK10 and the S/XS feels just about right, although maybe a little tight on my shoulders (there is a size guide on the website). There are three front straps that can be moved to six pairs of different height placement points. The chest strap clips are large. Other details include a 110dB safety whistle, which is incorporated into a front pocket, and two elastic straps on each side to attach three-section foldable trail running poles. Overall, this well-priced pack has everything you need to train and complete your first ultra.

Read our full Evadict 10L trail running bag review

Hydration pack for women

Ask any woman trail runner and she’ll tell you that it’s just not possible to wear a men’s version of a hydration vest during a race or on a long run. The Advance Skin 8 Set W was designed to have a unique shape and style that eliminates pressure on the breasts when cinched down, optimizing comfort, load management and capacity. It's created specifically to adapt to a woman’s curved chest, narrow shoulders and shorter torso length. We found it was very effective at achieving this brief. The two 500ml integrated soft flasks are positioned below the chest, and also have a unique triangular shape and straws for effective hydration access.

It’s a featherweight pack and hydration management system that keeps everything compact and close to the body, even when stuffed with extra gear. Additional features include a built-in whistle, pole-stashing options and room for a 1.5L hydration reservoir (not included). It’s ideal for races, training runs and multi-hour fast-packing adventures alike.

Read our full Salomon ADV Skin 8 Set W review

How we test the best hydration packs

These hydration packs were tested on a wide range of trail and road running training outings and during events, including ultra running races, in a mix of weather conditions. For more information, see How Advnture tests products.

How to choose a hydration pack

The different distances and conditions you tend to run in will, to a large extent, help determine the best hydration pack for you. However, before you make your choice, consider the following factor and features.

Weight

It’s always best to err on the lighter side, but remember that lightweight fabrics tend not to be as durable and they might not have all the pockets and features you need. For a 5–10L vest anything from 200–300g is nice and light. 

Fit and sizing

Most of the best running packs have a size guide where you can measure your chest to make sure you get the right fit. For most brands I would err on the smaller size if you are between sizes as it’s very annoying to have a pack that’s slightly too big moving around with each step; this can lead to run-ruining chafing in some cases.

Unisex fit

Let’s not beat around the bush, unisex basically means men’s fit doesn’t it? So having specific male and female fit running packs is always a big tick, with the women’s often having a shorter back length, smaller arm holes and differently shaped shoulder straps or lower bottle placements to account for boobs up front. However, unlike clothing, you can get away with more with a stretchy pack design, so don’t be put off in the same way by the unisex running vests; if they come in a wide range of sizes with ample chest strap adjustment we have found most do a good job of fitting a wide range of body shapes both male and female.

Rain

It’s worth sharing a tip here – rather than wearing your running pack over the top of your waterproof and faffing with getting it on and off in mixed weather, it’s worth buying a waterproof one size larger so you can wear it on top of your running pack. You might look like the Hunchback of Notre Dame but not only will your kit be even drier but you will save loads of time in getting it on and off. Take it off and loop it through a shoulder strap under your arm if you think you’ll need to put it back on soon. Every little helps…

Mesh

Most of the best hydration packs will have a mesh back to the inside of the pack and some mesh venting on the shoulder straps too which helps release some excess heat, great for excessive sweaters and/or hot weather running.

Pockets

Look for a lot of useful pockets up front, but make sure you can use them all when they’re full of kit or water bottles and, also important, get your hand out of it easily once you’ve grabbed the running gel you shoved it in there for. Stuff the pack with the maximum items you think you’ll ever want to carry and run around the house testing access to all the pockets before you commit. Even if they say weatherproof, no backpack pockets are completely waterproof so pop your phone in a dry bag for rainy runs.

Zips & zip pulls

Look for good quality zips with dangly grippers so you can grab them easily when running and with gloves on. One zip pocket at least is a must on a running vest so you have somewhere completely secure for your keys/phone/credit card/interesting item you found on the beach and must take back for your kid/dog/garden.

Main compartment

If you have flexible shoulders it is possible to shove gear in and out of the rear main compartment if it has an open top secured by velcro or a clip, or even a zip across if you’re really dexterous. Zips that run top to base at the rear will require that you take the pack off to access the contents so we tend not to recommend this style as much. 

Extensions

A couple of the vests in this test have extension options with clip-on extra bags which are a great idea if you regularly run with either very little kit or a lot. If you usually just carry a small-medium amount then a regular 5L pack will suffice.

Bottles

Look for a wide-mouthed bottle for ease of refilling or pouring electrolyte or energy powder inside, and a grippy exterior for ease of opening and closing. Scrimping on bottles price-wise is not recommended as a lower quality bottle could leave you with premature leakage. If you buy from a recommended brand at least you can send them back if they leak before you think they should. Most vests can also be used with hydration bladders too, check for a clip at the top of the main rear compartment to hook them on so they don’t crumple down.

Reflective details

This depends on how much road running you do, but we think it’s always useful to have reflective logos and details on running packs especially if you do a lot of commuting in the winter or night running. A lot of packs also have whistles as an additional safety feature which is handy for mandatory race kit lists; one integrated into the top chest strap clip is surely the best option for easy access in an emergency.

Running poles

Most of the best running packs have attachments for running poles in the form of adjustable bungee loops in a variety of places which is down to personal preference, comfort and ease of access while on the move. You can choose from across the chest (can be uncomfortable on the clavicles), one down each shoulder strap (can get in the way of your arms), diagonally across the back (less ideal when the vest curves outward full of kit), in a separate quiver-style bag diagonally across the back (more weight, and there’s a knack to getting them in and out), either side of the back (hard to stow and access on the move) and horizontally across the base of the back (can slap you on the bum if not properly designed…you may not find this amusing at mile 50…). Buy a few and try running around the house with your pack full and poles attached to check how you want to stow yours.

Californian backpack extraordinaires Osprey have brought their considerable expertise to the trail running world with some of the best hydration packs available today. Their Duro (unisex) and Dyna (women-specific) packs come in a range of sizes and are designed to allow you to carry everything needed to run further in comfort.

There are four sizes in the Duro range, the LT (0.5 litres), the 1.5, the 6 and the 15. While the two smaller packs only have space for the bare essentials – and the 15 pretty much masquerades as a daypack – the Duro 6 is perfectly sized to hold everything you need for a long, adventurous run without weighing you down. It’s multiple storage solutions, customisable fit and trail-ready hydration flasks make it a great option.

Osprey Duro 6: First impressions

Speaking of pockets, there are no less than twelve compartments – I think, I keep discovering more – for your various bits and bobs, which is ample to say the least. The two main zippered compartments cross the pack diagonally and there’s enough space for your running jacket and waterproof pants, as well as for other items like your wallet, keys and headlamp.

Fabric wise, Osprey gets a tick in the sustainability stakes thanks to the fact that the Duro is made entirely from recycled materials. The elastic quality of its Nylon Stretch Mesh is apparent from the off. This stretchiness, in effect, enhances the capacity of each pocket, while keeping them tight to the main body of the pack, giving you confidence that the non-zippered ones will keep hold of your items as you bound along the trails.

A zippered slash pocket is handily phone-sized and sits on the chest strap, making your device easy to reach should you need consult a navigation app or quickly take advantage of a photo opportunity. There’s also an integrated little whistle in here, should you need to attract attention in an emergency.

Okay, let’s round up all the other storage solutions here – we may be a while... There’s a large, stretchy front pocket for storing extra gear; the soft flasks sit in two large harness pockets on either side, complete with elasticated leashes that wrap around their lids so there’s no chance of them falling out; there are four lower harness pockets for food storage; and finally there are two open side panel pockets for whatever else you could conceivably take on a run. Phew!

The chest straps are fully customisable, allowing you to tighten things to your desired fit and you can even move the attachment points up and down. There’s also a trekking pole / ice axe attachment system on either side, with elasticated cinches that are quick and easy to manipulate and elasticated straps that hold the shafts off to the side.

Of course, all this mesh and the pack’s lightweight qualities means everything will get wet in a deluge, so you may want to consider packing a couple of dry bags for your valuables if serious rain is on the cards.

On the trails

Having clipped the chest straps and tightened them with ease, the Duro 6 was immediately comfortable. One of the signs of a great hydration pack is a distinct lack of bounce. Basically, a runner should be one with their pack and their pack should be one with the runner. My experience of the Duro was exactly this, it felt like a part of me for the duration. It certainly gets my vote in terms of comfort.

As well as this, the Duro’s clever design means you rarely have to remove it. Both soft flasks are easy to drink from on the go, while the number of pockets that sit around the chest mean that I had easy access to my gels, bars, sweets, Kendal mint cake or whatever else I might have wanted to consume during my adventure.

The large, open mesh pocket at the back was useful for storing things that I didn’t necessarily need to hand but could access quickly with the help of my running buddies. Over a long, seven-hour running adventure, I only had to take the pack off twice to grab my water filter bottle and refill at a stream.

Having two main zippered compartments is also useful, as I was able to sort the items into items I hoped not to use – such as my waterproof – and items I planned to use, which meant less time rummaging and more time running. In the grand scheme of things, this is only a small advantage, but when so many little design features come together so well, it makes a difference. 

All in all, the Duro is a marvellous pack that’s thoughtfully designed and is one I will undoubtedly use time and time again on long running missions.

When refilling and replacing the left soft flask, it’s a good idea to remove items from the zippered slash pocket, as otherwise the flask can sit too high and wobble around as you run. This isn’t a criticism but, like all good packs, it’s worth getting to know it to develop your systems.

Where I tested the Osprey Duro 6 hydration pack

To really test the Duro 6 to its fullest, I needed a lengthy run across rugged terrain – the kind if run where I’d need every feature and storage solution this excellent hydration pack has to offer. With this in mind, I set out on a 30-mile traverse of the Dartmoor National Park from north to south.

• How Advnture tests products

The best running backpacks are designed for adventure races and long speed hikes in the mountains. They occupy the blurred middle ground between a trail runner's hydration vest and a hiker's daypack, with many of the excellent packs featured in this guide more closely resembling the latter.

With capacities ranging from 7 to 32 liters, these packs are designed to carry a substantial amount of kit, more than just your emergency waterproof jacket, a whistle, water and some energy gels. These are packs for adventurers who expect to be out in the mountains all day and many work perfectly as hiker's packs too. We tested them on long runs and hikes in the backcountry.

As with the best hiking backpacks, these running packs are designed to give you stability and balance, as well as handy, on-the-go storage features. Hydration bladder compatibility comes as standard, with some even having a reservoir bundled in as part of the package.

For packs that work for adventure races and as hiking daypacks, we love both the Exped Impulse 30L and the Montane Azote 32. For smaller packs that are more suited to continuous running, we highly recommend Nathan's Trail-Mix 7L and Cambelbak's Octane 18.

The quick list

This is the quick list, a snapshot of the best running backpacks available in 2026. To delve deeper into the features and qualities of each featured pack, see our more detailed reviews further down the page in this guide.

• Back to the top ⤴

The best running backpacks 2026

The best running backpack overall

The Exped Impulse 30 backpack is a tough backpack and one that we think is a highly versatile beast. Made from a durable 210 Denier material, this daypack was able withstand the toughest abrasion when scrambling through the mountains, but it was equally at home when we were out and about on the hills, thanks to its versatile system. There are a number of adaptable features, from a removable back plate, to detachable hip belts for those who prefer to keep their adventures fast and light. There are several well-considered technical features, from an inside mesh pocket to zipped pockets on the hip fins.

The internal mesh pouch is for holding a hydration bladder. In addition, two mesh side pockets made it easy for us to stow away everything from drinks bottles to trekking poles, making it the perfect practical pack for a multitude of activities. 

What’s more, the pack has some of the greenest credentials of those on test, with the Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certification, meaning every component has been checked to make sure the materials are not harmful to human health, while also being certified as PFC-free. For those who want a backpack that can adapt to a range of mountainous and hill activities – we think this pack is perfect. 

• Back to the top ⤴

The best running backpack for simplicity

The Montane Azote 32 is brilliantly designed and was able to deliver everything we needed for everyday escapades, as well as some extra capability for peak-grabbing adventures (including a pole and axe attachment), but with a clean look and more minimalist finish.

The main harness is constructed with breathable mesh, with a foam frame behind it to minimize contact with the lower back, which significantly reduced sweating on test. The pack’s adjustable sternum strap has a Click-and-Go system, which we were able to operate with one hand. When we needed to stash wet gear, or keep a sheet map/extra layer handy, the large, mesh sleeve pocket on the front was invaluable. A pair of side pockets swallow water bottles (cleverly placed at an angle, so you can actually reach them while wearing the pack, without dislocating your shoulder). In addition, there is a sleeve for taking a hydration bladder. 

Impressively, the Azote is mostly made from recycled fabric. The main section is constructed with RAPTOR Eco 100 denier Robic Nylon – 78 per cent recycled, which is both durable and lightweight. All in all, we love this simple and versatile pack.

• Back to the top ⤴

The best small running backpack

"Super-comfortable, airy, flexible, easy-wearing pack for a fun adventurous day on the trails," says our expert tester. We think this nimble, super-comfortable vest is a gem at a very good price. While space is limited as compared to others on this list, there’s sufficient storage for a day adventure’s requirements, such as raincoat or windbreaker, snacks and other essentials. We particularly liked the simple, convenient way that storage is arranged, with two deep, zippered pockets in the back plus three easy-to-access stretchy pockets up front for an easy-grab of your phone, gels or sunscreen.

Hydration is well-served by a 2L bladder, and a drinking tube secured up front with a sternum clip. If you’re not a bladder fan, you can sink an 18 oz bottle (not included) into a pocket up front. A gender-specific design helps dial in fit, but that said, our male and female testers both tested the male version, and found it could be quite easily adjusted to suit them both. However, if you’re a woman who’s either large-chested or more petite in stature, consider seeking out the female version for a more nuanced fit. 

Hikers and trail runners will appreciate the elastic holders for stowing poles. Overall, the Nathan Trail-Mix 7L is well-suited to trail running, day hiking and scrambling.

Read our full Nathan Trail Mix 7L review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best value running backpack

We found that this roomy running backpack will comfortably and securely tote all the gear, hydration and snacks you need for several hours out. Though quite pliable and lightweight, it has some elements of a traditional backpack, offering some structure in back. While not a full-on internal frame, the lightly padded frame sheet makes packing, retrieving and refilling a bladder much easier than with flimsier packs, where considerable stuffing can be required.

The low weight combined with the structure and padding may also make this an option for backcountry snow sports, depending on gear, and its easy-to-wear design even led one tester to use the padded reservoir space for a laptop, making this an excellent commuter pack. Materials are tough and durable, and mostly non-abrasive, though wearing a T-shirt is going to work better than a tank top, where we noticed some chafing on exposed skin during a particularly long, hot walk. 

While the model is unisex, easy-sliding sternum straps and another set of adjustable straps at the hips dial in the fit. That said, if you’re petite or have a shorter torso, consider trying this one on before buying to ensure you can get the fit you want. Our expert tester said it was "well-suited for day hiking, hut-to-hut trips, backcountry snow sports and commuting."

Read our full Camelbak Octane 18 Hydration Pack review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best running backpack for balance

The Osprey Skarab 22 fuses modern style and materials with a classic rucksack design featuring an easy-access, wide-mouth, bucket-style storage area, a zippered slash pocket on top and two stretchy, open-air side pockets. Our tester took this pack up and down Mt Sheridan and Bear Peak in Boulder, finding it "to be a classic daypack for hiking with an effective hydration system that’s easy to refill and store."

It’s ideal for carrying just-what-you-need gear for multi-hour hiking adventures, whether that’s extra clothes, camera equipment or a picnic lunch. The adjustable strap system is highly effective in adapting to different hiker shapes, sizes and personal preferences. The dedicated hydration reservoir compartment keeps 2.5L of liquid securely stored, while elastic tube management loops on the pack’s front straps make drinking easily accessible on either side. 

One of the best aspects is the open-mesh, foam AirScape back panel that not only keeps sweat to a minimum, but it also provides insulation for the hydration reservoir. We appreciated the attachment loops for trekking poles on the back of the pack, but we would have loved easy-access waist-belt pockets that could allow retrieval of key items without having to take off the pack.

Read our full Osprey Skarab 22 daypack review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best running backpack for pockets

We loved this pack for on our wear-testing excursions in Colorado, especially because the ever-changing weather conditions forced us to continually remove or add layers of clothing. Our tester said that "the Citro 24 H20 is easy to get on and off and a breeze to wear on long days."

The well-organized storage system includes a large main compartment and a zippered interior security pocket with a key clip, one large external pouch, two large mesh side pockets, two zippered waist-belt pockets and a zipper slash pocket on top with a dedicated sunglasses compartment. But as much as we think this one of the best running backpacks, our favorite part of this outfit is the 3D hydration bladder and the dedicated hydration sleeve and hanger that provides for simple, one-handed, snap-and-go fillings and attachment/removal. It’s by far the best hydration reservoir system we tested. 

The Citro 24 H20 is ideal for long runs and traditional hiking endeavors, but it’s also optimal for peak-bagging adventures, minimalist bivouac outings and hut-to-hut trekking excursions. 

Read our full Gregory Citro 24 H2O review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best waterproof running backpack

The Trailblazer combines ultralight weight with a body-hugging design, which meant we were able to run far and fast without our gear bouncing around or slowing us down. Montane has cut way down your typical zips and buckles to get its pack weight down to just 300g, and in their place has used innovative solutions for adjusting the carrying straps and sealing pockets.

The roll-top opening makes way for 20 liters of space within the main body that is complemented by four extra pockets. Once we fitted it, it stayed in place even on technical trails, and the mesh backing and straps didn't get overly sweaty on hot, humid days.

The bungee cord design works as both compression, to keep you more aerodynamic, and also holds extra gear along with pole attachments in the shoulder straps for those of you who run with poles. This lightweight and comfortable running backpack is competitively priced compared to other running backpacks we’ve tested, and features an innovative – if a little complicated – design. It's one that "you’ll like once you get the hang of," according to our expert tester.

Read our full Montane Trailblazer LT 20 running backpack review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best women’s running backpack

This spacious, no-nonsense pack – while heavier than some we tested – is a good option for adventurers seeking a happy medium between chunky external-frame packs and completely structureless ones. We found that the padded frame sheet combined with a wide-mouth top makes super-easy to pack and retrieve gear with this bag.

The model is female-specific, with narrower cuts to the shoulder and hip straps to better suit a female shape, and we found this helped mitigate movement/friction as well as allowed us to better balance and manage heavy loads. 

Storage is ample with a variety of roomy pockets for gear, food and other essentials, but our expert tester said tha it was "not as accessible as we’d have liked – other than the zippered pockets at the hip, you pretty much have to take off the pack in order to access your stuff." Trekking poles and an ice axe can be stowed in loops up front and easily retrieved as needed. It’s well-suited for long days running or hiking in the hills, for fastpacking and hut-to-hut adventures, and even backcountry snow sports. 

A similar men’s version of this pack is the Osprey Skarab 30.

Read our full Osprey Skimmer 28 review

• Back to the top ⤴

The best running backpacks comparison table

How we test the best running backpacks

Our reviewers trail-tested these packs in the hills and mountains of Colorado, the Scottish Highlands, and Dartmoor and Exmoor in southern England, on adventures ranging from long training runs to multi-day fastpacking forays. 

Meet the testers

How to choose the best running backpack

While hydration vests focus overwhelmingly on carrying water – making the space for other items very limited – the best running packs are more like daypacks, offering much more capacity, ranging from around 4L to 30L. So there are a range of volumes to consider, as well as a myriad of features:

What size should a running backpack be?

How long you will be out for, and whether you are running or fastpacking, will dictate the size of the best running backpack for you. In addition, if you plan to take part in trail running races and events, you are likely to require a pack that fits all your essential kit. It will also depend on the seasons: in summer you will require less spare clothing compared to winter. A training session or adventure of around a day will usually require four to 10 liters of volume. 

How should a running backpack fit?

The aim of a running pack is to have a snug fit. The best running backpacks sit high on your back and shoulders and should not move around too much. It is important that the main part of the harness fits you comfortably on the shoulders but not too tightly because you want your arms to be able to move freely. 

Check that you can also adjust chest straps to give a neat fit. Women should make sure the chest straps suit their chest size. Most straps can be moved up and down as well as tightened to give a comfortable fit.

What materials are running backpacks made from?

The best running backpacks should be made of robust materials to withstand the abrasion of repetitive use on the trails. Some have a water repellent treatment or they are made of waterproof fabrics. Packs with a lightweight mesh back and a bit of padding make a good choice

What pockets should a running backpack have?

Some people love lots of pockets and others prefer a simpler system. It’s a matter of opinion. However, it is undeniably useful to have some zipped pockets so you can ensure that valuables don’t get lost as you run, and pouches and pockets on the harness for storing snacks, a headlamp and a mobile phone are a real bonus (see our guide to the best headlamps for some good options).

What other considerations are there when choosing a running backpack?

Some clips and adjustors can be fiddly on running packs, so you should check that you can use them easily. Think about how it will be with cold hands or your best hiking gloves. If you are long-sighted, it is not always so easy to clip the chest straps because they can seem to be too close to your eyes to focus.

A bungee compression strap on the outside of the pack is useful for carrying extra clothing that you might need in a hurry. 

A whistle is usually on the essential race kit list so check if the pack has one of these, too. Sometimes a zipper will double as a whistle.

Most of the best running backpacks have elastic straps for carrying poles when you are not using them. Try this system to see if it suits you because some people prefer to carry them at the rear, while others at the side.

Small pockets for stashing gels, snacks and bits and pieces are really useful, especially if you can reach them while the pack is still on.

Ultramarathon runner Katie Knight learned about the importance of hydration the hard way when she was trying to set a new fastest known time on the Backbone, a 70-mile stretch of trail that extends across the length of the Santa Monica mountains.

“My crew chief had not planned proper drop spots for water, and so I went 12-mile sections in the middle of the day in the heat without any water. By mile 65, I felt all the signs of dehydration and fatigue, you know, brown urine, things like that. It was not great,” recalls Knight.

“I had to sit down for a little bit and then walk out the last five miles. So I missed the fastest known time on that segment by about 40 minutes because of dehydration. I learned my lesson for sure.” 

Proper hydration doesn’t just affect your performance times, of course; it can be a matter of life and death. So we sat down with Boulder-based Knight, who was also the 2021 World’s Toughest Mudder Champion, and North Carolina’s Susan Kitchen, a registered dietitian and USA Triathlon Level II and IRONMAN certified endurance coach, to discuss their best hydration tips for runners so you can be amply prepared every time you pull on your trail running shoes. 

1. If you don’t have water, you’re running naked 

According to Kitchen, if you don't have some fluid either set up right around you or on your body, you might as well be running naked, even if you’re going for under an hour.

“I always recommend bringing hydration with you. It's just a good idea. Even if the run wouldn't be longer than 60 minutes, you're still becoming dehydrated, which would affect your recovery, and the rest of your day. And if you had a key workout, let's say the next day, it would affect that as well.”

That said, for a run that’s an hour or less, you can usually rely on just water, without any added electrolytes or using running gels to keep you fueled and fast. 

“If you're going past an hour, or if you have another workout that same day, it's much better to have a little bit of fuel and sodium on board as well,” explains Kitchen.

How much water you need to drink of course depends on your metabolism, how far you're going – there's no point taking a hydration bladder on a half-hour pootle – and the temperature and conditions, but when you find the right balance, Knight says hydration is crucial for her performance, even on 50-mile races.

“I can run all day if I just stay dehydrated.”

2. Prehydrate 

Before you protest that you always take a drink with you, hydrating for a long run doesn’t just begin by filling up your water bottle before you head out the door.

“I usually consume a decent amount of water per body weight in the hours before and in the days leading up to a race,” explains Knight. Your behavior in the days before a long run can really affect your hydration levels on the big day, so avoid dehydrating foods and factors like alcohol and excessive heat.

“If you’re training for a big race, you definitely want to avoid being in the heat unnecessarily in the days leading up to it, unless you're just doing a training run, but sitting outside on the beach sweating, or in a sauna, is not a good idea. Get enough sleep and eat well around the race too, to make sure you're recovered from the other workouts,” advises Kitchen.

3. Drink early and often 

Kitchen’s number one tip for her clients is to drink early and often –  in other words, don’t wait until you get thirsty. 

“Don't wait. If you're running for four hours, don't wait 30 minutes or 45 minutes into the run because you're just not thirsty. That's not a good excuse because you know you're going to get there and when you do feel thirsty, it's too late.”

Knight agrees, reinforcing the need to guarantee that you’re going to have proper hydration stations along your route every five or six miles, kind of like running pit stops in NASCAR.

“Once you hit that dehydration state, you're kind of out of luck, at least in my experience. There's not a lot of coming back from that.”

If you misjudge things and don’t carry enough water or aren’t able to find safe sources of drinking water along your route, you’ll soon be able to spot the physiological signs of dehydration, which is the number one cause of fatigue in endurance sports, according to Kitchen.

“The first thing you'll notice is that your heart rate goes up. Even if you're not monitoring your heart rate on a Garmin, or a heart rate monitor or a watch, you will feel like you're working harder than you should be. Your perceived exertion goes up, your heart rate goes up, and you start to feel not well.” 

According to the Cleveland Clinic, hydration is responsible for really important functions like digestion, balancing your body chemicals, delivering oxygen to your cells and regulating your body temperature. When you’re dehydrated, you may experience symptoms such as headache, confusion, dizziness, high heart rate and low blood pressure, which are dangerous enough at the best of times, and more so when you’re out on the trail.

“It’s different than at a bonk. It's different when you deplete your glycogen stores than when you've hit dehydration,” adds Kitchen. “And thirst usually comes after that. So if you're starting to feel really parched, you've already started to notice a decline in performance.” 

4. Replace sodium, not just liquids 

Next up, both experts warn that just drinking loads of plain water isn’t going to cut it, especially on a long run of more than an hour. When you sweat, you also lose precious electrolytes, which are responsible for many of your body’s key functions.

“Sodium is instrumental for many other things besides just performance. It's what makes all the muscles contract. And it's what helps deliver nutritive neurotransmitter messages and if you don't have enough sodium the whole body's going to start shutting down,” warns Kitchen.

“I do a lot of sweat testing on athletes to test their sodium loss. It's astonishing how much they lose an hour, let's say on the bike or a run. Like we're talking 3000 milligrams an hour.” 

So in addition to carrying and sipping water regularly, for long runs you should be looking for running drinks and electrolyte mixes to replace sodium. Knight says she uses a product called BOA which comes in a lightweight aerosol can that she can spray into her mouth during a run.

“You get a ton of sodium per spray and it's super easy to carry. I found that some hydration mixes really bother my gut, but this absorbs in the mouth and so it doesn't really affect my GI system as much.” 

You can also check out our guide to the pros and cons of salt tablets for runners.

5. Don’t over hydrate 

Though it can be tempting to chug water leading up to and during a run after reading about (or experiencing) the dire warnings of dehydration, Kitchen warns against overdoing it and inducing overhydration, or hyponatremia, which shares some of the same symptoms of dehydration and, in the worst cases, can result in coma and even be fatal. 

“Over-drinking water in the days prior to a run, or leaning on just water for hydration, is not a good idea. It dilutes the sodium in the blood and will affect not only performance, but health.” 

Though it sounds unlikely, Kitchen warns that even among elite runners, it can be more common than you might think. The best defense, according to Knight, is to avoid chugging water, and think little and often.

“I think it's usually best to take little sips of water. So set a timer on your watch or every 0.5 miles take a drink because a lot of runners get GI issues when too much water comes in at once.”

6. Practice is key 

Finally, putting all of this into practice for yourself is key, and that can take a little trial and error. Starting with how to carry water while running, Knight says her preference is two bottles in the front pockets of her running vest.

“I find that most comfortable and I can carry quite a bit.” 

Other runners prefer a hydration pack or stashing water bottles in a running belt, and both experts agree that what you choose really just comes down to personal preference. However Kitchen warns that the only method she doesn’t recommend is carrying a bottle in your hand.

“Carrying something in your hand really throws off [running] form and form is critical for running efficiency.”

If you don’t like carrying water on a run, there are other options too. Run along a route where you know there are plenty of safe natural water sources and carry a LifeStraw, for example, or if you’re road running you can always use Kitchen’s creative mailbox approach.

“You have some athletes who don't like any of those options, so they run a mile out, then a mile back and grab a water bottle out of their mailbox. And if they want to do that all day, then go for it, you know?” says Kitchen, adding “It's just important to be disciplined. Some people have beeps on their watch, other people just intuitively do it. You have to kind of come up with what works for you to keep yourself accountable.” 

In addition to figuring out how to carry – or access – enough liquids, also take the time to figure out which gels, powders and potions work for your gut.

“Really find something that works for you because it's definitely different depending on what your body likes. Practice is key, because you don't want to get to race day and you have issues with hydration and hydration mixes,” advises Knight.

When it comes to training for trail running races and other running events, make sure you essentially try to recreate the conditions with every run you do, from the shoes on your feet to the fluids that you carry and consume.

“It's critical to train with the plan that you intend to use on race day in race-like conditions and efforts with your fuel hydration plan, over and over, so there's nothing new on race day,” concludes Kitchen.

Trekking, trail running, fastpacking and thru-hiking are all thirsty work, and even in cooler weather, you’ll have to rehydrate along the trail so figuring out how to carry water needs to be part of your plan. If you're going far enough that you need to carry your own water, you already know that it's heavy and bulky, and it can be a pain to keep breaking your stride every time you need to reach for you best water bottle.

You may be considering investing in a lightweight hydration pack for your adventures, but are hydration packs worth it? After all, water bottles are sturdy, reliable and affordable. We answer your questions about hydration packs and explain how to choose the best one for your activities. 

What is a hydration pack?

A few decades ago, hikers and trail runners used to carry metal flasks in basic canvas or nylon backpacks, which they often picked up at an Army surplus store. The canteens worked well, but they were heavy, cumbersome, and relatively small, and they typically bounced around inside a pack. The advent of plastic water bottles changed the game, but those too were limited by size and weight. 

The biggest game-changer has been the development of bespoke portable hydration systems in the 1990s. These were pioneered by the brand CamelBak, whose founder Michael Eidson came up with the concept in 1989 when he found himself stuffing an IV bag full of water into a sock that he tied to his back while competing in the Hotter 'n Hell 100 bike race in Wichita Falls, Texas. Twenty-five years later, the company Eidson launched off the back of that idea was worth $412.5 million, and increasingly sophisticated hydration bladders had become widely integrated into sports-specific packs.

Comfortable and specifically tailored to runners and hikers, the best hydration packs are considered vital pieces of kit for many distance and trail lovers. These range from compact backpacks to snug-fitting vests that have small pockets for soft bottles and/or a pocket for a hydration bladder, plus pockets for energy gels and that extra waterproof jacket. Hydration packs are designed to spread the weight of the essentials needed for an adventurous running route and to give you easy, quick access to everything you need without having to stop.

Are hydration packs worth it?

Though it still comes down to how much water you’ll need and your personal preference of how you want to carry that weight, the short answer is, yes – if you’re taking part in trail activities that are longer than 10km/6 miles in length, it's a good idea to invest in a hydration pack. You'll find that a good hydration pack is comfortable and lets you load up on your essentials but won't slow you down at all. However, not all hydration packs are the same, so the following are a few insights for you to consider as you weigh up your options.

How much water do you need to carry?

We all know we need to drink when we’re thirsty, but it’s more than just that when we’re participating in long endurance pursuits, including trekking. Many studies have shown that runners and hikers should be trying to replace the same amount of liquid they’re losing in sweat. Everyone’s sweat rate varies – and that can be greatly affected by the weather conditions – but drinking about 500 to 750ml (16 to 24 fluid ounces) per hour is a good estimate. In warm and hot conditions, you’ll likely sweat more, so that could be increased to roughly one liter (36 fl oz) per hour. That's a lot of water for an all-day adventure, but fortunately some of the best hydrations packs can carry up to 10 liters of water. Read more on this topic in our article on figuring out how much water you need for hiking.

If you’re embarking on longer adventures or activities in the heat, you’ll also need to replace the electrolytes you’re losing in your sweat (primarily sodium, chloride, potassium, magnesium and calcium) to be able to properly rehydrate. The most effective and consistent way to do that is to dissolve electrolyte tablets into your hydration reservoir or one of your bottles after you refill them with water. Make sure you know how to clean a hydration bladder afterwards to keep yours fresh.

What type of activity are you doing?

Whether you’re trail running, trekking or thru-hiking, you should wear a pack specifically designed to meet the precise needs of those activities. No matter if you’re covering a long or short distance, a properly-fitting pack built for that activity will help you maximize your comfort and performance out on the trails, as well as allowing you to stay optimally hydrated. 

There are dozens of packs available out there for each activity – from lightweight minimalist vests to full-on backpacks – but not all come complete with hydration options at the time of purchase. Many backpacks have dedicated space for a reservoir, and an opening for the tube to come out of, but not all supply the bladder to fit in it – do your research before purchasing a pack.

• Tip: Although you might be purchasing a pack primarily for the purpose of carrying water, consider all its other features as well, before choosing one. Many are very cleverly designed to offer easy-access pockets for storing snacks/phone/sunglasses and so on, and mesh storage options for wet weather gear.

1. Trail running hydration packs

Trail running packs typically feature smallish (500ml/18 fl oz) soft bottles accessible from the front, and/or small-to-medium-sized hydration reservoirs (1–1.5 litres/36–50 fl oz) with drinking tubes that integrate into the pack. If you’re running in a trail race – no matter if it’s 5km, 42km or 100km – you’ll benefit from having aid stations where you can stop and refill water bottles. That means you can carry less water while you’re running, thus reducing your weight, but it also means you’re reliant on variables outside of your control (for complete reassurance it’s worth having some water with you). 

A pack with soft bottles can also work for short to medium-length adventure runs out in the wild (under 10km), but if you’re embarking on a multi-hour run in remote terrain, you’ll definitely want to consider a hydration reservoir – even though it’s going to be heavy at first. 

• Tip: When looking at buying a reservoir/bladder for trail-running races, where time is precious, choose one with an easy-to-fill system.

2. Thru-hiking hydration packs

Some medium to large hiking backpacks have medium to large hydration reservoirs with drinking tubes, while others have no integrated hydration at all, which means you can opt to retrofit your own water bottles into that pack or buy an after-market hydration reservoir system. If you’re thru-hiking on a long-distance trail, you’re most likely going to have the chance to fill up your water receptacles as you pass through small villages or huts on the trail. 

But sometimes those waypoints are far apart (or the source might not be reliable), forcing you to carry ample water so you can make it from point to point – and maybe a little extra just to be safe. Hydration systems with reservoirs and easy-access drinking tubes are a lot more convenient. Carrying your own plastic bottles can be cumbersome because it often means you have to stop and remove your pack to access the water zipped up in your pack. The other option, of course, is to carry a water purification system or chemicals, but those can take time to work.   

• Tip: To clean and kill bacteria that can build up in a reservoir/bladder, rinse it out after use and then freeze it (empty).

3. Fastpacking hydration packs

Fastpacking combines the thrill of moving relatively fast while trail running with the long-distance endurance of backpacking and thru-hiking. Depending on your re-filling options, you could carry either smallish soft bottles or a hydration reservoir while you’re fast-packing. If you’re able to refill often at specific points along your route, carrying soft bottles could be best. But if the chance to refill from spigots is few and far between, you’ll want to opt for a medium to large reservoir (1–3 litres/50–100 fl oz) and/or carry a portable water purification system, too.

• Do you need salt tablets for running?

The last thing anyone wants – whether trail running or hiking – is to take a sip of water from a hydration bladder only to get a horrible plastic taste. Many brands have tried to find ways to reduce the unwanted plastic taste left in your mouth from a water bladder or soft flask but there are still people who report issues,

We asked one of our hiking experts to give four methods to get rid of the plastic taste in water bladders. She also reveals whether or not you can safely drink water that tastes like plastic and some hydration options that don't.

How to get rid of the plastic taste in water bladders

These are our four tried-and-tested methods for removing the plastic taste out of a water bladder. For more detail, click the links of scroll down this feature.

• Baking soda and lemon juice: add warm water, the juice of a lemon and two tablespoons of baking soda and leave overnight.
• Baking soda and vinegar: add one tablespoon of each, swish and leave for a few hours.
• Cleaning or denture tablets: fill with warm water, drop in a denture cleaning tablet and allow to dissolve.
• Mask the taste: Use flavoured drinks or electrolyte tablets to cvoer the plastic taste

Is water that tastes like plastic bad for you

• There’s no evidence that hydration bladder water contains unwanted plastic
• As microplastics are harmful to health, leading brands now use BPA-free plastic in their products
• However, studies show that BPS – the replacement – has unwanted effects on your reproductive system
• Hard to guarantee that drinking from plastics is totally safe

Before we go into the various methods of removing the plastic taste from your water bladder, let’s address the question of whether you actually need to do this. After all, a plastic taste is unpleasant, but is it harmful to your health?

We couldn’t find any studies showing that water from a bladder that tastes like plastic actually has any more plastic in it than water from a bladder that doesn’t, however it’s now known that microplastics are harmful to human health according to one report in The Guardian, which is why leading brands of hydration packs and bladders have started using BPA-free plastic.

However, while removing BPA from plastic removes the detrimental effects of that material, one study by the University of California in 2016 reported in Science Daily found that BPS, the common replacement, has unwanted effects on your reproductive system. So in a nutshell, we can’t say that drinking water from plastic vessels is totally safe, no matter how it tastes, but we also can’t say there’s any evidence that the plastic taste means more plastic in your water. Your water is just absorbing the taste of the vessel it’s in.

The best advice is that it's probably better not to drink out of plastic vessels all the time, but if you’ve decided that it’s your best option on the trail, you need to decide whether you’re a person that can put up with the taste.

Water bladders that do not taste of plastic

If you are looking for a new water bladder that made our list of the best and is guaranteed no-taste, we recommend the Platypus Big Zip EVO. Overall, we have found that if you choose a water bladder that is more expensive and listed as 'taste-free', you'll have more luck than if you go with a budget bladder.

Home remedies for removing the plastic taste

There are a few home remedies for removing the plastic taste from your water bladder. We’ve decided to omit one using bleach for your health and safety, and focus on the four that have worked for us. Once you’ve got rid of the plastic taste, you’ll want to use our guide to how to clean a hydration bladder to keep yours in good condition as they are prone to building up mold and bacteria.

Baking soda and lemon juice

Fill up your bladder with warm water and add the juice of a lemon.

Give it a swish around, then add two tablespoons of baking soda.

Screw the cap of the bladder shut and give it a good shake.

Leave your bladder with the solution in it overnight, then drain it in the morning and rinse it thoroughly.

This method proves quite effective, though for a very strong plastic taste, you may have to repeat it. It's likely to leave your bladder with a slight lemony taste at first, so if you can’t stand the thought of that, do it without the lemon, or use the next method.

Baking soda and vinegar

Fill your bladder with warm water and one tablespoon of white vinegar.

Swish it around, then add one tablespoon of baking soda.

Tighten the cap, give it a good shake, and leave it to sit for a couple hours before rinsing it thoroughly.

Cleaning or denture tablets

This method is quite effective, and especially great if you happen to have unflavored denture tablets lying around in the bathroom cabinet.

Simply fill your bladder with warm water.

Drop a denture cleaning tablet into it and let it sit for about 15 minutes until it’s completely dissolved before rinsing thoroughly.

Be aware that if your denture tablets taste of mint, so will your water.

Mask the taste

If you have tried the four methods above and you are still finding you can't get plastic taste out of your water bladder, you could attempt to mask it with different flavoured drinks or by adding flavoured electrolyte tablets to the water.

Hydration is one of the most basic human needs there is, and the necessity for it becomes even more apparent when you’re hiking. Breathing hard and sweating are a recipe for dehydration, and you can’t always rely on finding safe drinking sources in the wild. That's why carrying a water bottle is an essential piece of kit for all hikers – until the 1990s rolled around and hikers started carrying water in hydration bladders instead. 

The hydration bladder, invented by Camelbak in 1988, allowed keen hikers to sip water without using their hands or even slowing down – a perk so perfect that it’s a wonder water bottles haven’t gone the way of the dinosaurs. But the sturdy, dependable water bottle has held steady all these years for those seeking a no-nonsense approach to hydration. We figured there must be some good arguments for both hydration systems for them to have maintained their footing among hikers, so we took on the debate of water bottle vs hydration bladders to find out if one is really better than the other.

Water bottle vs hydration bladder: what’s the difference?

We know you know what a water bottle is, so we won’t bore you with the details other than to say that, these days, the best water bottles for hiking come in a variety of designs, including BPA-free plastic, aluminium, insulated and some even have their own nifty straws and filters.

Meanwhile, a hydration bladder is a plastic bladder with a hose with a locking mouthpiece attached to it that serves as a drinking straw. The hydration bladder goes into a pouch in your backpack or hiking vest, the hose slides through loops on the shoulder strap and the mouthpiece hangs out next to your face for whenever you need a sip.

Water bottle vs hydration bladder: capacity

Obviously, when you’re trying to stay hydrated on a hike, the key is to carry enough water to keep you going. For a long hike or hot, dry conditions, that means carrying a fair bit of weight, unless you want to stop and drink water from a stream every couple of miles. This is a category where hydration bladders win hands down. 

While your typical water bottle will hold somewhere between 750ml and one liter of fluid, your hydration bladder might hold three liters, or even more. Now of course, the more you carry, the heavier it will be, but because of the design of hydration bladders – a soft pouch that sits comfortably against your lower back – it’s definitely feasible to carry a lot of water. Meanwhile, carrying three water bottles would take up a lot of space in your backpack, probably feel pretty uncomfortable and then you’ve got all that noise of bottles banging together (although soft water bottles solve that problem for you).

Water bottle vs hydration bladder: packability and comfort

Once you’ve got your water bottle filled, you have two reasonable options for where to put it for your hike. You can either put it inside your backpack, or use one of the side pockets. Inside your pack it takes up a fair bit of space, but you can center it so it doesn’t feel lopsided while you walk. If you use a side pocket, you have more room in your pack but it will feel uneven (unless you carry two water bottles and alternate drinking out of them).

If you use a hydration bladder and you have a proper hiking backpack with a pocket for it, then you won’t have to think about where to put it or whether it will be comfortable. The hydration bladder just slides into the pouch so it rests against your back, and will never feel off balance. And, of course, it doesn’t take up valuable space inside your backpack so you have room for everything you need, like your best waterproof jacket and best hiking gloves.

If your backpack doesn’t have a special pouch for your hydration bladder, it’s not impossible to use it. However, it might be a little less comfortable, and you should position the hydration bladder at the bottom of your bag.

Water bottle vs hydration bladder: ease of use

At first glance, a water bottle seems pretty easy to use, right? After all, you just hold the spout up to your lips and sip. However, once you get on the trail, actually stopping to root around in your bag for a drink every time you’re thirsty seems like an awful lot of hassle. As a result, you might not drink as much water as you should on a hike.

Even though threading the tube of your hydration bladder through the loops on your backpack can be a bit of a nuisance, once you’re walking, the tube is next to your mouth and you can sip away constantly, hands-free and without breaking stride if you want, which is truly the main appeal here.

Water bottle vs hydration bladder: refilling

Where we just said that hydration bladders are easy to use in terms of drinking, water bottles are certainly easier to refill when you're running dry. If you’re on a long hike or it’s a very hot day, you might need to stop and refill. With a water bottle, that’s easy – just unscrew the top and voila. 

Refilling hydration bladders can be a bit more bothersome, depending on the type of pack and backpack you have. These days, the bladder itself has a large screw-on lid that you can undo to fill it up, but you basically still need to remove the entire hydration bladder from your backpack, then put it back in and reposition the tube. Of course, if you’re using a backpack that doesn’t have a pouch for your hydration bladder, you’d need to remove everything from your backpack in order to access it.

Water bottle vs hydration bladder: durability

Good quality, durable hiking gear is key to keeping our landfills free of plastic, so you want to make sure that whatever you buy, it’s going to last a while. Whether it’s made from plastic or aluminum, a good water bottle should last for years and the odd dent doesn’t affect its ability to perform. The main thing that can happen is that the threading on the plastic lid can stop meshing with that on the lip of the bottle, but replacement lids are often available.

Meanwhile, your hydration bladder is made from a soft, pierceable fabric and leaks can occur in the joints between the bladder and tube as well as the mouthpiece. The individual parts are usually replaceable, but you’ll want to make sure that you don’t pack it next to sharp items in your bag, or toss it in the back of your car or your garage with heavy items on it when you’re not using it.

Water bottle vs hydration bladder: hygiene

We’re probably all guilty of not cleaning our water bottles every time we use them, but it’s a good idea to keep any drinking vessel clean to avoid bacteria building up. With your water bottle, that’s easy – just throw it in the dishwasher after your hike.

Hydration bladders are a bit notorious for being harder to clean and developing mold – although they are always improving on this front – so you’ll want to read up on how to clean a hydration bladder and consider stashing yours in the freezer when you’re not using it to prevent mold.

Water bottle vs hydration bladder: temperature resistance

When you’re hiking in hot weather, the last thing you probably want is a sip of hot water and if you're hiking in the winter, frozen water does you no good at all.

Water in a bottle will get warm more easily if you’re carrying it in a side pocket, so for hot days pack it inside your backpack and use a vacuum-insulated bottle with a couple of ice cubes inside. Meanwhile, a hydration bladder in a pouch should stay cool, but the tube will heat up as it’s exposed, so be prepared for the first few sips to be hot.

Water can freeze in either system, but the tube of your hydration bladder is very likely to freeze, whereas for very cold temperatures you could use hot water in an insulated bottle, so the water bottle is probably your best bet in extreme temperatures.

Water bottle vs hydration bladder: taste

This one seems silly, because water just tastes like water, right? Well, yes, if if you’re drinking it from your water bottle, but hydration bladders are well-known for making your water taste like plastic, for a long time. There are various home remedies for this, involving baking soda and lime juice, but be aware that without putting in a little effort, your water might be unpleasant to drink.

Water bottle vs hydration bladder: price

Even though both systems are available at both budget and premium pricing, if you’re looking for a low cost hydration solution, you’ll definitely want to go with a water bottle. You can easily find a bottle for under $10, whereas you’re looking at upwards of $30 for a hydration bladder.

Water bottle vs hydration bladder: the verdict

If your priorities are comfort, ease of use on the trail and making sure you stay hydrated, then you’ll love owning a hydration bladder. Yes, it takes a bit more effort to refill and keep clean, but you’ll probably drink more water – especially if you treat it to get rid of the plastic taste.

Meanwhile, the classic water bottle certainly takes up more space in your pack and doesn’t hold as much water, but it’s cheap, durable, easy to clean and refill and holds up better against extreme temperatures. If you’re still straddling the fence, check out soft water bottles which are made of similar material to a bladder and are extremely packable, but don’t come with a tube.

• What's the best hydration drink for runners?

CamelBak’s M.U.L.E has been a mainstay of the range for years – it's an absolute classic and has stood the test of time. Today’s M.U.L.E is highly evolved and there are variations tailored for everything, from commuting, through to big days out on E-Enduro bikes over demanding terrain. We checked out three variations suited to trail riders of all sorts. 

The M.U.L.E 12L: packed with features for trail riders

We will start with the M.U.L.E 12L as this is the standard pack aimed at trail riders. Well we say standard, but it still packs in loads of features!

As you’d expect, the pack has a 12L capacity which is plenty of space to hold everything you’d need for a big day out on the trails. The pack is constructed from recycled materials using safer chemicals to help preserve resources. Most importantly, the pack is built to last and this in itself helps to boost its eco credentials. 

Included with the bag is the latest CamelBak 3 litre reservoir which is more user friendly than ever. The reservoir’s non-drip bite valve comes equipped with a shut off valve that effectively prevents leaks, even if you pile loads of kit on top of a full bladder in the back of the car. The newly designed reservoir cap is better than ever, making it easier to open and close. CamelBak says that the new reservoir delivers 20% more water per sip than the older version and Hydroguard™ technology helps prevent bacterial nasties from growing inside!

Wearers of the new pack can tame unruly delivery tubes using CamelBak’s Magnetic Tube Trap. Strong magnets keep the tube in place on the harness, preventing it from flapping around whilst having the bonus of making it easy to locate without taking your eyes off the trail when you get thirsty.

As with all the M.U.L.E models, this pack comes with the Air Support back panel which maximises air flow and helps to prevent overheating and a sweaty back. The storage options are immense and well thought out with integrated tool organisers and a multitude of pockets. To secure the pack, CamelBak utilises a sternum strap and a removable stability belt meaning everything stays put.

If that’s not enough then the M.U.L.E 12L also comes in a variety of colours. Versions to suit male and female physiques retail at £120.

The M.U.L.E Evo 12L: for all-weather protection

The next pack we took a look at was the M.U.L.E Evo 12L. 

The Evo has all the same features as the standard M.U.L.E, but adds all weather protection. With its welded construction, the Evo is aimed at riders who never let the weather get in their way. In addition, the Evo comes equipped with CamelBak’s Command Centre harness to ensure the load is stabilised without the need for a waist strap. It does this through the use of two chest straps.

The Evo comes in one style and one colour and retails for £140.

The M.U.L.E Pro 14L: for big days and serious terrain

If the aforementioned big days out on an E Bike over serious terrain are more your thing then the M.U.L.E Pro 14L is your bag, as it’s been designed specifically for this purpose.

This pack's extra 2 litre capacity means it can swallow an E-Bike battery on top of your regular kit, meaning you can double your scope to find testing terrain. Whilst you’re there you’ll be glad to know that like all of CamelBak’s Pro range you can slide in an optional back protector. The Pro also comes with a tool roll to keep everything organised and rattle -ree and there is additional storage in the waist strap for quick access to small items without removing the pack. If you decide to hop on an uplift there is built-in storage for your helmet.

Like the Evo, the Pro version of the M.U.L.E retails for £140. There’s a choice of black or Agave green colourways.

Clearly, CamelBak’s M.U.L.E has continued to progress and there is a pack suited to every trail rider wanting to comfortably carry a sensible amount of kit whilst staying hydrated.

For further details head to: camelbak.co.uk

We frequently hear the advice to avoid dehydration and to stay properly hydrated for good health and well-being, but what does this actually mean? Further still, if you are a runner, what is the best drink for hydration? 

For this article, we ask the experts about how to properly hydrate when running and the best drink to carry in your hydration pack's bladder or water bottle to keep your energy and performance up on the trail or road.

Dehydration: what does it mean for runners?

When we exercise, the body sweats in order to regulate its core temperature. Heat evaporates with the sweat, which cools us down. This is the main reason we lose water when we exercise and especially during the warmer months. 

Christian Allen, a Running Fitness expert and Product Trainer at Runners Need, further explains that both dry and humid conditions can put runners at greater risk of dehydration. 

He says: “Humidity makes it harder for sweat to evaporate because the air is already saturated with moisture. If the air is dry, sweat evaporates quicker, causing you to lose water at a faster rate.

“Although severe dehydration is rare, for runners common symptoms can be fatigue, headaches, dizziness and decreased coordination. In more severe cases, dehydration can cause heat exhaustion and heatstroke.”

Runners: What is the right way to hydrate? 

Knowing how much water we need to carry with us, or whether water or specialised sports drinks are better for hydration, is key to being better performance as a runner.

Abby Coleman is a senior sports scientist with a focus on the right fuelling and hydration for athletes. She explains that there have generally been two camps when talking about hydration. The first is drinking water to replace fluids lost to sweat and the second is "drinking to thirst". The modern approach now looks more at the individual athlete and their specific hydration and fuelling requirement. 

Coleman, who is part of a team of experts at Precision Fuel and Hydration, explains: “For many years, hydration for athletes was focused on replacing sweat loss with water. Basically, the aim was to prevent dehydration by taking on as much water as is lost in sweat.

“But the problem with this is that some athletes have the potential to end up drinking too much water, or becoming over-hydrated. They drink because they have been told to drink a certain amount and at certain intervals, rather than hydrating to suit their personal needs."  

At the milder end of the scale, over-hydration will lead to discomfort, such as water sloshing around in the stomach or bloating, however there are far more dangerous consequences of drinking too much water, including, in extreme cases, exercise associated hyponatremia.

Coleman says: “When you drink too much water before, during or after exercise, your blood sodium concentration falls below normal because it becomes diluted. Sodium is an electrolyte, which helps to regulate the amount of water that's in and around your cells. 

"When this happens, your body's water levels rise, and your cells begin to swell. The swelling can cause many issues leaving runners feeling nauseous or dizzy, but in some extreme cases it can cause the brain to swell and, for some runners, it can lead to a coma or death.”

Another hydration strategy for runners has commonly focused on the idea of runners drinking to thirst . Drinking to thirst requires runners to drink fluid whenever they feel thirsty and stop when they are not. Critics of this method claim that our thirst mechanism is a poor indicator of when we need to hydrate and that this can lead to lower performance levels due to under hydration.

Coleman says that when she is asked the common question of how much waterer or fluids to drink when running, her answer is: "It depends." 

She adds: "Hydration is very personal and depends on how much you sweat, how far you are running, what the conditions are like and many other factors. That’s why it is important for athletes to create a personalised fuel and hydration plan." 

What’s the best drink for hydration for runners?

Pop into a sports store, look on the sports-focused shelves of supermarkets or do a search online and you’ll discover a vast range of products such as isotonic drinks that are claimed to offer better hydration for athletes.

Most of these sports hydration products include a long list of ingredients. 

Coleman says: “The ingredients of sports drinks will usually include electrolytes such as magnesium, potassium and sodium, and most likely some form of carbohydrates, too. Plus water obviously.

“The most important electrolyte in terms of hydration for runners is sodium because this is what is mostly lost through sweating. But knowing how much sodium to replenish is difficult without individualised testing.

“Not only do we all sweat different amounts but the concentration of sodium in the sweat will vary from person to person, too.”

How to check your sweat loss

Although the method is not scientifically robust, it is possible to gain an idea of how much you sweat and whether you lose a lot of sodium / salt in the sweat.

Coleman says: “It is better if you can have a personalised sweat test carried out by an expert, but you can also do your own sweat test , even if quite basic, by asking yourself a few questions, such as do you see white sweat lines on your clothes after a run?  This is usually more apparent when the sweat dries in.

“Also, do you end up with salt in your eyes from sweat dripping off your forehead and can you feel the grit of excess salt on your skin? If you experience any of these or all of them, the chances are you have higher sodium content in your sweat and need to replace this with the right electrolyte drinks.” 

Water or a sports drink for hydration?

Coleman suggests a good rule of thumb for choosing between water only and drinks with additional electrolytes: “For most runners who are exercising at lower to moderate intensities of up to about 90 minutes in cool to moderately warm conditions, then water is most likely to be enough for re-hydration. 

"It’s important not to drink too much water before exercise and it’s definitely not a good idea to force yourself to drink while out on a run, so mostly we talk about sipping water when you feel thirsty. 

“What is more critical is when running for more than 90 minutes or when working at hard intensities or when the conditions are warm to hot and you are running for more than 60 minutes. Then the hydration plan needs to include replacement of the important electrolyte sodium.

“Again, the best way to get this right is to know how much you sweat and what is the concentration of sodium in your sweat. Once you know this you will be able to take on the right amount of fluids, including  the right replacement of electrolytes.”

When runners are properly hydrated and the body has the right levels of electrolytes they are much more likely to perform at their best, without suffering issues such as fatigue, nausea, dizziness, and cramps. 

CamelBak Ultra Pro Vest: first impressions 

A firm favorite for running roads or tracks day after day, the CamelBak Ultra Pro Vest comes in male- and female-specific fits to guarantee the best comfort. 

The 3D micro-mesh ventilated back and shoulder straps make it one of the coolest vests to wear in hotter conditions. The combination of four pockets up front is very handy: there are two bottle pockets with elasticated tops to keep the two included 500ml soft bottles secure; one zippered smartphone pocket; and one very stretchy elasticated pocket that will take a lightweight waterproof or gloves and a running hat. 

At each side are two stretch-elastic pockets, one that goes all the way through the base of the rear compartment to meet the other side – great for easily threading a waterproof jacket through while on the move. 

The main compartment has two bungees for poles to run diagonally across the back, and the only real downside of this otherwise perfect pack is that the main compartment could be made of a stretchy fabric to jam in some more kit and food. It is the perfect size and fit for whole-day runs in the hills and mountains using lightweight kit.

CamelBak Ultra Pro Vest: on the trails 

The Ultra Pro is one of my favorite hydration vests ever. It has endured hundreds of miles on roads and trails around the UK and Europe, and despite having tested scores of other designs in between, this one has remained my reach-for vest for several years. 

It’s so comfy because of the bouncy 3D mesh and excellent male / female specific fits. We’re just glad they still make it. One of the reasons it costs more than some of the value packs on our buying guide is because it comes with two high-quality CamelBak soft bottles, which are treated with an anti-microbial finish. These are very durable and last for years too, just like the running pack. 

I did have a slight screw-top leakage issue with one of the bottles, which a small amount of TPU tape sorted out. This must have been a rare manufacturing blip or maybe a test sample issue as we have not experienced this with any other CamelBak bottles over many years of testing their other hydration products as well. 

Apart from this, the only other slight downside to the vest is that the main compartment is not as stretchy as some of the other packs we’ve tested, so you can’t overstuff it full of gear. Maybe this is a good thing, though, to stop you taking too much on your run.

Inov-8 Race Ultra Pro 2in1: first impressions 

The Inov-8 Race Ultra Pro 2in1 Vest is a fantastic option if you want a durable, versatile pack to allow you to do short runs with minimal kit (2L) and longer ultras or fastpacking outings with up 12L of equipment using the extension pack. 

It is a little tricky working out how to clip the 10L extra section on and off (as a last resort I had to read the instructions) but once you know how it’s very simple (albeit still fiddly to do with big gloves on or with cold, numb hands, so decide on the capacity before you run and stick with it). 

This running pack / race vest is heavier than any of the packs we tested for our best hydration packs buyer’s guide, owing to its larger capacity. It’s also made with a heavier-duty durable fabric, so it should last forever, which you definitely want with a pack at this price. 

You do get a lot for your dollar, though: two packs in one; the bottles can be used in the higher front pockets and the lower front pockets using the long drinking straws (great for larger-chested ladies wanting to spread the load up front); two 500ml bottles included, plus a reusable water cup (the Speed Cup) for quickly dipping into streams or filling up at checkpoints. 

It would just be good to have one smaller size option on this unisex pack to cater for slimmer frames, though.

Inov-8 Race Ultra Pro 2in1: on the trails 

This running pack / race vest is such a great idea for those who want one pack to do it all. I found the 2L pack perfect for shorter runs close to home, when you just want to carry some water and your phone, with some space left over for when you take your running jacket off after 10 minutes when you realize you should have been bolder and started colder. 

Then, at the weekend or during the holidays, the 10L extension comes in super-handy for long-distance running along the Cornish coastline, or doing an ultra in the freezing mountains of Snowdonia with the bag expanding to fit all the extra layers you need, and tough enough to take a pair of (wrapped up!) microspikes. 

The only thing we would say is that the zip closure on the extension pack would be better right across the very top, so you could access it more easily while on the move. And it would be nice to have an even smaller option for this pack, to fit slighter frames. I also think that the smaller-pack option would be even more useful at a 5L capacity.

Other than that, we found the generously stretchy front pockets were great, and the option to put the bottles lower down was ideal for those with bigger boobs (especially while breastfeeding!). The Speed Cup was a really nice extra little freebie.

OMM TrailFire Vest: first impressions 

The OMM TrailFire Vest is an extremely innovative piece of kit that will appeal to lightweight enthusiasts because it’s an incredible 125g / 4.4oz on the scales – almost half the weight of most of the other running backpacks and hydration vests on the market. 

Fans of versatility will also enjoy the option to add another 5L capacity using Compressor Pod extension (£28). This loops on via a strong, orange string which can be a little fiddly with cold hands, but it’s a fantastic idea to be able to leave this somewhere part way round a long run, or with a race crew for a speedy top-up of fuel or kit mid-way. 

The four pockets up front are quite small so they’re a best for fitting a 350ml soft flasks (sold separately, £13 each no straw, £18 each with straw extension), or you can add a 2L hydration bladder in the main rear compartment (£26). The stretchy fabric takes a fair amount of lightweight kit and snacks for fuel and the fit is good for all due to the elasticated adjusters at each side. However this does mean you lack two side pockets.

OMM TrailFire Vest: on the trails 

As a super-light piece of kit we found the TrailFire Vest absolutely fantastic to fold up small and throw in a suitcase or hiking backpack for travelling – there’s no excuse not to go on a nice long exploratory run once you arrive with this tiny, packable running pack / race vest in your luggage. 

I found it better suited to shorter runs on my Norfolk and Pembrokeshire coastal path holidays owing to the smaller front pockets being best for carrying the 350ml soft flasks rather than the more usual 500ml size, or for use on races where you can fill up at aid stations. 

You can add the Compressor Pod to get an extra 5L, but this makes it harder to access the main rear compartment, and access to the Pod itself is via a full-length zip, so it’s harder to get things in and out of it while you’re on the move compared to a top-loading race vest like most of the other vests we have tested. 

The shoulder straps were also not as comfy for people with boobs, because of the semi-rigid edge to the inside of each strap where the elasticated chest straps were secured. 

Silva Strive Light 5: first impressions 

The Silva Strive Light 5 is a really well-designed, good-value 5L vest with a lot of good features, especially for night running with a headlamp (perhaps not surprising, since Silva are best known for their high-quality head torches and compasses). 

To help you run further in the dark for longer Silva have a battery pocket high up in the back compartment and you can thread the cable through either of the shoulder straps (the same hole as for the hydration bladder tube, if needed). This means you can use a super-bright headlamp (like the Silva Trail Runner Free) with a heavier battery (so a longer, brighter burn time) without wearing it on your head. 

There’s also a clip to hook a light to on the back of the pack for even more visibility, plus reflective details to keep you safe on road sections and city commutes. 

Two soft bottles are included, but they are a smaller than the bottles on other vests at 240ml each rather than the usual 500ml; their openings are also narrow making it harder to refill them or pour electrolyte or energy powders into them. One great feature is the stretchy, dual-access rear pocket at the base of the main compartment, which you can access with either hand on the move and shove a jacket inside quickly and securely.

So the Silva Strive Light 5 certainly looks like it should be up there in contention with the best running backpacks and best hydration vests, but how did it fare under test conditions? Read on…

Silva Strive Light 5: on the trails 

Night running is definitely made a lot easier with the Strive Light 5, as not many other packs feature a small pocket at the top of the main compartment to put a heavy super-bright headlamp battery in, so that is a really good shout from Silva. We found this worked really well for commuting in the dark winter months, and also running through the night on longer ultra events and mountain adventures where we had to have a bright enough headlamp to navigate with. 

Fit-wise, this vest is unisex, but there is a choice of three sizes that will cover most people and we found it comfortable with the adjustable chest straps and stretch fabric. 

It would be better if you were able to fit 500ml bottles in the bottle pockets up front with wider mouths, as the pack does support longer adventures otherwise (with trekking pole loops, plentiful stretchy front and side pockets, and the aforementioned headlamp battery pocket). Possibly this is one for night running in winter or colder climes (like Sweden) when you don’t need quite as much water, or events with a good amount of aid stations for refills.

Ultimate Direction Race Vest/Vesta 5.0: first impressions 

The Ultimate Direction Race Vest / Vesta (male/female) 5.0 has a truly innovative and unique fit that some runners will find sets this pack above all others – it definitely rates alongside the best running backpacks we tested for out buying guide.

The Comfort Cinch allows you to pull the waist area of the pack in from behind, using two dangling threads to tighten or loosen a string arrangement that attaches the waist band to the base of the main compartment. No other running pack / race vest has this feature and for some it will make the fit absolutely perfect, especially as you consume the water in the reservoir. If you have problems with the fit of your current pack, this is the one to consider.

Even without this feature it’s a fantastically designed pack with plenty of pockets up front, zipped side pockets, a stretchy main compartment and bungee criss-crossing the back for extra stuff-storage that you can access on the move.

It also comes with two robust 500ml bottles so you don’t have to purchase them separately. Equally, it is compatible with a 2L reservoir (not supplied).

The adjustable chest straps hook on to a lightweight webbing, making these operable with one hand, and there’s room for trekking poles on the shoulder straps too, easily stowable and accessible up front.

Ultimate Direction Race Vest/Vesta 5.0: on the trails 

This super pack has so many great features, and we have very much enjoyed using the Race Vesta 5.0 for many miles in the hills and mountains of the Lakes and Peaks. 

The four-way stretch is second to none and the male/female versions, along with the Comfort Cinch design, make it truly one of the most adjustable race vests around. 

We don’t think the Comfort Cinch is 100 per cent essential, however: there are plenty of other packs without this feature that fit us fine and don’t bounce around. But feedback from other runners confirms that this feature definitely has its benefits, so it might work wonders for you, too. 

One downside is that the gloriously stretchy lower-front pocket is very hard to access when there’s a full water bottle in the pocket above, but that’s soon solved with a few swigs of water. 

Plus, one great feature of the included 500ml body bottles is their chunky, easy-to-open, wide tops and the push-lock bite-valve – a nice feature if you’re doing a lot of bending or scrambling (or impromptu crew/marshal hugging!) so you don’t lose dribbles of precious water. 

Strange how the cool mountain pattern on the zippered side pockets only features on the women’s Vesta; poor men, they often lose out on the funkier designs in running kit.

Harrier Kinder 10L Race Vest: first impressions

Harrier was founded in 2019 in the UK by Kate Mackenzie. The company sells a range of “more affordable” products for hill and ultra runners, such as vest packs, poles, jackets and accessories.

A new version of the brand’s Harrier 10L Kinder Race Vest has just been released, with updates that have taken into account a range of feedback from users. There are four sizes of the unisex pack so runners can find the right fit for them, plus adjustable chest straps to ensure a no-bounce experience. The fabric is treated with DWR (Durable Waterproof Repellency) to see off light rain.

Most of the 10L capacity is in the main, zip-topped compartment. This is split in half by a vertical mesh divider so that you can carry your best hydration bladder on one side and what you like on the other side. There is a bladder attachment at the top of the inside of the compartment and a short sleeve for a water-feeding tube.

There are lots of pockets of different sizes on the front of the shoulder straps, including open-topped pockets for soft flask bottles sized 300ml to 500ml. An elastic loop at the top the two bottle pockets either side is a thoughtful extra and prevents the bottles form slumping down inside the pocket.

Other pockets, both open-topped and zipped, can be utilized for gels, snacks, keys and a small phone. 

There is a rear bungee for carrying items, such as a jacket, on the outside of the vest pack, and elastic straps for carrying running poles when not in use. 

Updates and redesigns to the new Harrier Kinder 10L Race Vest (2022) include a refined front pocket structure; improved trims and zips; silicone grippers on the front straps and inside some pocket tops; and fabric panels to allow for better storage. There are also clever systems for folding away / tying back elastic straps and pulls when not in use.

So do these changes keep the Harrier Kinder 10L Race Vest in contention with the best hydration packs? Read on to find out what we thought…

Harrier Kinder 10L Race Vest: on the trails

This is a cleverly and thoughtfully improved version of the original pack, which was already an affordable winner.

The fabric and trim seems stretchier so it is now easier to pull on and off. I am a UK10 and the size small fits nicely and neatly. Whether I have a couple of items in the main compartment or the pack is full, the pack feels comfortable and it stays in place on my upper back. The promise of no bounce is correct.

The zip pulls are easy to use, even when wearing gloves, and there are plenty of useful places to stash all the bits and pieces that trail and ultra runners take with them.

The design team has found clever ways to tuck away straps and toggles when not in use, although this can be a bit fiddly and I don’t advise you try it when you’re in a rush or have cold hands.

I’m not sure why the rear bungee elastic is so long and I would prefer it to be shorter so that there’s less to tuck away when not in use. 

The zipped phone pocket is small and narrow and it isn’t the right size for my larger-style iPhone. Instead I carried my phone in one of the open-topped pockets at the front. The phone stayed in place but I’d rather have a larger zipped pocket for this item. 

There are lots of small reflective details, which are great in winter and dark mornings or evenings. 

There is a DWR treatment that repels light rain. If you are out in heavy rain, you’ll need to put kit into dry bags or wear a waterproof jacket over your pack. 

The Harrier Kinder 10l vest pack was already a great pack and at an excellent price compared to other brands and now it is even better. If it had a larger zipped phone pocket I would have given it a 5/5.

A backpack is considered a staple piece of gear for a hike of virtually any distance. It’s where you stash all your essentials, like your water bottle, waterproof jacket and first aid kit so that you can keep your hands free for using your trekking poles or scrambling on steep stuff. But what if you absolutely hate carrying a backpack? Maybe you find it negatively affects your posture or perhaps you have an injury that makes it difficult or painful. In this article, we compare four possible backpack alternatives for hiking, so you can still hit the trail with everything you need for a day hike. (Sorry folks, if you’re going on an overnight adventure, we still think a good backpack is your only realistic option).

Before we dive into the backpack alternatives for hiking, however, it’s important to consider that the reason you hate carrying a backpack might be to do with the backpack you have. You can read more in our article on how to choose a backpack, but you will be happier with a proper hiking pack that is contoured to fit your body, and not your old book back from college which might lack padding and support. In addition to getting a good hiking backpack, you’ll want to get the right size backpack for your body. We recommend heading out to your local gear store with a couple of books and trying on some packs with some weight to see if you can find something that will convert you to the backpack brigade. 

But what if you already have a great backpack, and it’s the right size, and you still hate it? One other possibility to consider is that it just needs to be properly fitted to your body. Read our tips on how to adjust a backpack to make sure yours is getting the weight off your shoulders and onto your hips, where you want it.

Now, if you’ve done all of the above to no avail, you don’t have to quit hiking, buy a mule, or set off without any gear. Here are some realistic backpack alternatives for hiking that don’t involve you carrying a tote back up a hill or trundling a suitcase up a mountain:

Running vest 

Also called hydration packs, running vests have a little crossover with a backpack, but are much more minimal and snug, fitting over the shoulders and the chest like a vest (or waistcoat if you’re in the UK). The neat fit ensures they don’t bob around or rub too much as you bound along the trail, and they’ll work even better if you’re hiking, not running. They come with a built-in pocket for your water reservoir, meaning no need to carry a bottle, and have other small pockets for key items like snacks, your phone and perhaps even your best hiking gloves. You won’t be able to carry much more than the bare essentials, and you might want to invest in some very lightweight and packable gear, but you can also use pockets in your hiking pants to supplement your vest storage and chances are, you’ll like this option more than carrying a backpack. 

Waist pack 

Also called lumbar packs, hiking waist packs sling around your hips and offer a surprising amount of storage these days. Typically these fasten at the front and you carry more of your gear in pockets around the sides and back so it won’t get in the way of your climbing. Many of the big backpack manufacturers are making hiking waist packs nowadays and they come with pockets for water bottles and other gear. The big selling point is that these are nowhere near your shoulders, so they won’t impact your posture, and they allow you to move your arms normally. That said, many people do find they move and bounce around a little which can be annoying. However, if you’re dead set on nothing around your shoulders, this is your best option. 

Crossbody backpack  

So yes, this is still a backpack, but some people do find crossbody backpacks more tolerable than your regular two-strap affair. Long favored by bicycle couriers and cool people in the 1990s, the cross body backpack has one strap that crosses your body diagonally from one shoulder to the opposite hip. These won’t offer as much storage as a regular backpack, which some might see as a positive because it will make you pack light. A major downside is that these are asymmetrical, which isn’t ideal when it comes to your posture, however some major backpack manufacturers have invested in these, like Osprey, so if you’re going for it, try to find one that’s designed for action rather than fashion. We don’t love this option, but it’s worth a go. 

Get creative with pockets and carabiners 

Finally, there is the no-bag option that is possible if you’re just going for a short hike in good weather. We still always recommend carrying water, a first aid kit and an extra layer, but the best hiking pants and jackets come with lots of large pockets where you can pack a maps, compass, beanie, emergency gear and snacks. You might even be able to clip certain lightweight items like packable waterproofs and gloves to loops on your jacket or trousers with a small carabiner, though too much of this can get annoying and overstuffed trouser pockets can inhibit your range of movement.

A waterproof or fleece jacket can be tied around your waist and if it’s a sunny day, you can apply sunscreen before you set off. For your water, you can carry a bottle in your hand or use a hydration belt as we recommend in our article on how to carry water while running. The slight risk of this is that you end up ditching gear you really need, but if you dress properly in hiking layers and understand the hiking essentials, you might be able to make this option work for you and hike unencumbered by pack or belt. 

Hydration is an important part of adventuring, but you don’t always have to carry water on a run. In fact, for shorter distances and cooler weather, it’s generally best not to since carrying water can be burdensome and adds unwanted weight. But for those times when you do need it, it’s helpful to know how to carry water while running so it doesn’t slow you down or throw you off your game.

In this article, we explain when you need to carry water and hacks to avoid carrying water on a long run as well as methods for carrying water so that whenever you get your trail running shoes on, you’re never worried about dehydration. 

Should I carry water while running?

Research published in the journal Biology of Sport shows that dehydration does impair your performance and cognitive function, so staying hydrated is indisputably important. That said, slight dehydration won’t impair your performance and is even normal during exercise and so don’t overthink this. 

For a short run, you can definitely get away with drinking water before and after your run. For long runs and hot days when there isn’t going to be water available, you need to carry your own water. Though there’s not hard and fast guidance about when a run is long enough to need to carry water, a general rule of thumb is that for runs that will take much more than an hour, you should start thinking about carrying water with you. This need is intensified during hot weather, when you perspire more and dehydrate faster.

How much water should you bring on a run? 

Again, there’s no exact formula for how much water you should bring since it’s difficult to account for how much you weigh, how long the run is and how warm the weather is. But practically speaking, you can’t easily carry more than one full bottle or reservoir of water, so that should be your max and if you need a lot more, you’ll need to plan to refill. 

The best approach is probably to fill your bottle or reservoir the first time, then after the first hour, take a sip or two every 15-20 minutes or whenever you’re thirsty. If you still have a lot left at the end of your run, you’ll know to cut down by that amount the next time. Moderate to severe overhydration can also impair your athletic performance, according to a review article in the journal Nutrients, so don’t overdo it just because you brought it – you can always pour it out if you’re not thirsty and it’s weighing you down. 

How to carry water while running 

So how do you carry water on a run? There are three obvious ways to bring fluids with you: 

1. Hand held bottles 

If you don’t mind carrying weight in one hand, you can use a good old fashioned water bottle. However, you’ll want one that has a valve not a screw top and is molded to fit in your hand with good grip. If possible, find one with a strap to keep it in your hand, and you should test it at home to make sure the valve doesn’t leak when you’re moving your arm. 

Obviously, the downside of this method is that it’s asymmetrical which feels imbalanced, so make sure you change sides frequently. Once you start drinking the water, the sloshing also might get annoying. The upside is that they’re a relatively cheap solution, the water is readily available and you don’t have to break stride every time you want a sip.

2. Hydration packs 

For a more hands-free approach, try running with a hydration pack. These can range from light vests to small backpacks that can carry a reservoir of water or hydration bladder and have a hose you can sip from while running. 

The clear advantages of these are that the weight is distributed evenly across your back and these packs have room for other items you might need to carry like snacks, keys and your phone. The water also doesn’t slosh around as much since the reservoir is held tightly in a pocket. The downsides are that these are more expensive, and running with a pack can increase the risk of rubbing and chafing.

3. Hydration belts 

Perhaps a nice happy medium to the water bottle and hydration pack is the hydration belt, which is basically a holster for your water bottle. Some are designed to carry one larger bottle while others come equipped with several small bottles and these usually also have storage for smaller items. 

The advantages of these are that they allow you to move your arms naturally and they don’t rub your chest or shoulders. However, the downsides are that they can bounce while you’re running which can be distracting or affect your gait and they can rub or chafe around your waist and hips. Plus, it can be more difficult to extract and return your water bottle each time you want to take a drink.

How can you avoid carrying water on a long run? 

If you’re absolutely determined not to have to carry water with you on a longer run, there are some possible ways around it. First, you can prehydrate by drinking a couple of glasses of water a couple of hours before you head out. You should also make a habit of checking the color of your pee before you go to be sure you’re not setting off dehydrated.

You might be able to plan a route where you know there are safe sources of drinking water, whether that means natural or drinking fountains, however, note that the latter sources are much more scarce since the pandemic began.

Finally, if you’re running near water sources, one option is to carry a micro water filter like the Lifestraw which is not much bigger than a pen and filters water from a stream or lake instantly into your mouth.

Then when you get home from any length of run, make sure you drink lots of water to rehydrate.

The best hydration bladders allow you to sup 'a little and often', which is arguably the best approach to hydration on long adventures. As well as this, thanks to the way they're stored in a dedicated compartment in your backpack – they keep everything in balance, key to efficient movement in the backcountry.

Although they come in various shapes and sizes, hydration bladders are basically plastic reservoirs attached to a drinking tube. The reservoir sits in your backpack and the tube is designed to be threaded through to your pack's exterior, where it's easily accessible. A bite valve allows you to control the flow of water as you drink.

Having water readily accessible means that you avoid falling into the trap of drinking only when you feel a thirst coming on. By this point, you'll already be dehydrated and your performance on the trail will have started to suffer, whether noticeably or not. The great thing about the best hydration bladders is that you don't have to stop and open up your hiking backpack to access them.

Our expert tester has been supping his way through countless miles on the backcountry trails to bring you this guide to the very best hydration bladders available in 2026. We rate the Platypus Big Zip EVO as the best in the business thanks to its anti-bacterial properties and no-plasticky-taste guarantee.

The quick list

This is the quick list, a snapshot of the best hydration bladders available in 2026. To delve deeper into the features and qualities of each featured reservoir, see our more detailed reviews further down the page in this guide.

• Back to the top ⤴

The best hydration bladders 2026

The best hydration bladder overall

Platypus’ premium reservoir has loads of features that make filling it, drinking out of it and also cleaning and drying it user-friendly. The newest Big Zip EVO has twice the flow rate of past hydration reservoirs. The plastic slide that seals the reservoir goes on from either side and doesn’t leak and a handle on the front of the reservoir provides a dry place to grip when filling. Silver ions embedded in the polyurethane reservoir kill mold and bacteria before they can grow, "keeping the reservoir taste-free" according to our expert reviewer.

On test, we loved how the drink tube disconnects from near the top instead of at the base, so that when our pack was full but our water bladder was empty, we didn’t have to fumble around to get the reservoir out. It doesn’t leak and it is easy to see if the valve is on or off. The center baffle prevents the reservoir from sagging as it empties, and helps prop it open when you are drying it out. Our testers' favorite feature of this hydration system, however, was the new high-flow bite valve that’s paired with a new larger drink tube. 

• Back to the top ⤴

The best hydration bladder for Osprey packs

Built for backpackers, what makes Osprey’s Hydraulics bladder special is the backer plate on the reservoir that keeps it from sagging as you drink, and which also keeps the set-up low-profile, so "it didn't sag and feel lumpy against my back" said our expert tester. A handle on the reservoir allowed us to fill without getting wet hands. Plus, the sections of hose and bite valves come off when it came to deep cleaning. The reservoir comes with a magnetic clip to attach to a backpack’s sternum strap that gives the magnetic bite valve a place to attach when it’s not in use.

On test, we really liked the stiffened back design, which let us slide the reservoir against the back of our packs. The locking valve is also excellent, preventing unexpected spills. The hose detachment point near the top of the reservoir let us remove the reservoir to refill it without pulling the hose from its routing through the pack back and shoulder strap. 

• Back to the top ⤴

The best hydration bladder for keeping water cold

According to Nathan, their 1.6 Liter Insulated Hydration Bladder keeps fluids 38% cooler than an uninsulated bladder. The Hydrapack bladder has an hourglass shape that prevents sloshing when you’re moving and after you’ve been drinking. The reservoir comes with a 36 inch / 91cm non-kinking drink tube that can be trimmed to fit. 

On test, the top slider was easy to open on this reservoir, making it quick to fill it and "not too hard to clean," according to our expert. On sweaty summer hikes and bike rides, this bladder helped me drink more because the water was cool and delicious, not lukewarm, and hard to choke down. And, when used for cycling on longer rides, the 1.6 L size perfectly complemented a water bottle mounted on the bike. The bite valve has decent flow, but it doesn’t lock, so spillage has occur if something presses against the valve. 

• Back to the top ⤴

The best hydration bladder with an integrated filter

Important note: the CamelBak Crux Reservoir filtered by LifeStraw is currently only available in the United States. The CamelBak Crux Reservoir system is available elsewhere, and can be attached to the LifeStraw Flex. (The LifeStraw Flex is sold separately, and only available in the US). The standard CamelBak Crux Reservoir system is not safe for use with dirty water.

You can fill the CamelBak Crux Reservoir filtered by LifeStraw combination system with dirty water, because before you get to drink it, the water passes through two stages of filtration, thanks to the LifeStraw attachment. A hollow fiber filter removes bacteria, parasites and microplastics, while an activated carbon filter reduces taste, odor and chlorine. An anti-microbial technology inside inhibits bacteria growth in the reservoir and tube, and all components are BPA, BPS and BPF-free. Plus, for every unit purchased, CamelBak gives one child one year of safe drinking water.

We found that the wide-mouth reservoir and sturdy handle made it easy to fill this bladder from streams. The lid screws on tight, and it is tethered, so we were never in danger of losing it. CamelBak’s self-sealing Big Bite Valve has the best flow of any bite valve sold, and it locks. The filter, which clips directly into the reservoir, can also be removed when your reservoir is clean, and you know your water is too. Our expert says that this "makes the system extra flexible." The filter and reservoir pair with CamelBak’s reservoir Gravity Kit to turn this system into one you can hang and use in camp for cooking, washing food and drinking. 

• Back to the top ⤴

The best hydration bladder for stopping water freezing

One of the simplest and smallest large-capacity hydration reservoirs available, the soft and flexible Platy Bottle holds two liters and as you drink, it can be rolled or folded to take up less space in your pack. The bottle comes with a simple screw cap, but it’s compatible with Platypus’s Drink Tube Kit, GravityWorks Filter System and Push-Pull Cap too. 

If you’re a hiker who sometimes likes to drink out of a tube, and sometimes out of a bottle, the Platy Bottle 2L is for you. The large capacity bottle comes with a cap that we found sealed it securely during our tests, which makes this one of the best ways to carry extra water on long days on the trail, without always having a heavy and space-consuming bottle in your pack. We were also able to pair it with Platypus’s Drink Tube Kit, which is sold separately, whenever we wanted to drink from a hose. In cold weather, used with the cap, the Platy Bottle won’t freeze, unlike other hose-based hydration systems. Our bikepacking expert also added that "it’s also easy to carry on bikepacking trips, strapped to a seat bag."

• Back to the top ⤴

The best hydration bladder for campsite use

While it’s not a bladder for hiking, we think this is a great reservoir to hang up in camp to dispense clean water for all present. The Pack Tap is ultra-packable and foldable for storage, with Hypalon anchor points that we found made for easy hanging. Filled, the single-hand-operable self-shutting valve is convenient and doesn’t waste water.

It’s hard to find a vessel big enough to supply water for drinking, cooking and refilling reservoirs for a hiking party that’s not too heavy and bulky to pack along. We found that the wine-box-technology Pack Tap took up almost no room in a backpack. It’s foldable and comes in a variety of sizes. The cloth-covered mylar bag has one opening, and that’s the fill port, which is also the pour port. "The cap makes it easy to dispense a controlled stream of water" according to our expert tester, and when your thirst is quenched, a cover clips over the cap to keep the dirt out. On the downside, we found it quite difficult to clean. 

• Back to the top ⤴

The best hydration bladders comparison table

How we test the best hydration bladders

We tested these hydration bladders by pairing them with a compatible backpack and taking to the backcountry trails or, in the case of the Sea to Summit Pack tap, the campsite. Each bladder was tested numerous times to assess any changes in taste and, if applicable, its ability to maintain the temperate of the water within. Towards the end of each test period, we gave each bladder a thorough clean to assess how easy they are to care for properly.

For more information, see How Advnture tests products.

Meet the tester

How to choose the best hydration bladder

For an ostensibly simple piece of kit, the best hydration bladder can be a very good friend when you’re out on the trails – keeping you in good shape as you enjoy whatever adventure you’re experiencing. After all, one of our main hydration tips is to drink often. A hydration bladder allows you to do just this.

The battle of water bottle vs hydration bladder shows no signs of abating, so it's worth taking a moment to think about the considerations around hydration.

So, without further ado, here are some frequently asked questions about hydration bladders and then several factors you should consider when buying...

Are hydration bladders worth it?

First of all, hydration is pivotal to performance regardless of what kind of outdoor activity you plan to enjoy. Dehydration will not only slow you down and make you feel rubbish but it can eventually lead to some pretty dangerous consequences.

How you hydrate is entirely up to you. Some people prefer to carry a water bottle in their hiking backpack or a soft flask or two in their hydration pack. If you're going to be going past a few mountain streams, taking a water filter allows you to fill up with clean water on the go.

Advantages of a hydration bladder are the ability to store large capacities of water, or any other runners' drink, and have it readily accessible thanks to the drinking tube. This allows you to sup a little, often, which is the best approach when hiking.

Should I get a 2L or a 3L hydration bladder?

Amounts up to 2L can usually be covered by taking a few soft flasks but once you get into longer adventures in the backcountry, taking more water becomes very useful indeed. The hydration pack you choose may dictate the size of your bladder but if not, read on...

A 2-liter bladder should be enough for most day hikes, even in the height of summer. It's perhaps a little excessive for running adventures, unless you're heading somewhere relatively remote and without easy access to streams and the like. When this is the case, having a large hydration bladder coupled with a hydration pack is really worth it. If you end up running out of water, you can always bring a filter along and fill up as you go. When it comes to the battle of hydration packs vs water purification, the ability to filter water rather than carrying a load is very desirable for fast and light adventurers.

A 3-liter bladder when full will weigh 3kg, so it's a lot of additional weight to take onto the trails. A larger bladder like this is useful if you're on a wild camping expedition or you're carrying water for yourself and others, such as the kids, for example. Also, if you know there won't be many opportunities to refill, then 3L will give you a little peace of mind.

Of course, you don't have to fill a reservoir right to the top, so for versatility, a 3-litre bladder will have you covered in more scenarios.

What is the best cold weather hydration bladder?

The Platypus Platy Bottle (number 5 on our list) won't freeze in cold weather, as long as you pair it with its cap and now its Drink Tube Kit.

What is the best hydration bladder that doesn't taste like plastic?

Our top-rated reservoir, the Platypus Big Zip EVO comes with a guarenteed 'no taste' and is the best hydration bladder than doesn't taste like plastic. The newest version also boasts twice the flow rate of the previous versions too. Just be careful not to drink too much too quickly and overhydrate!

Factors to consider

Here are 8 key factors to consider when buying on of the best hydration bladders...

1. Size

Get one with the capacity to match your adventures. A 1L reservoir or 500ml running water bottle won’t cut it for a full-day desert adventure. Within reason, it’s always better to carry too much water than not enough. So, if you’re not sure if you should buy a 2L or 3L reservoir, go big (as long as it fits in your pack) – you don’t have to fill it right to the top for every adventure.

Check out our guide to water for hiking: how much you need to carry.

2. Flow

If you’re panting at the top of a gruelling hill hike or singletrack climb, you want a bite valve with high flow that doesn’t take a lot sucking to get water into your mouth. 

3. Mouth

A bladder with a wide mouth (or slider system) is much easier and quicker to fill when you’re on the move. This can be particularly important in cold conditions (and you don’t want to be fiddling around with water) and/or you’re racing. They are also easier to clean.

4. Hang hook

You don’t need to be Newton to know that, in order to work properly, a bladder needs to be kept relatively upright, with the hose at the bottom – they are powered by gravity as much as by sucking power. The best hydration bladders will have a hang hook at the top, and the best hiking backpacks and race vests will have a hoop for you to hang them from.

5. Taste

If you’re sensitive to taste, opt for a reservoir that is taste free. Some reservoirs come with directions of how to get rid of reservoir taste, but you might want to invest in one with guaranteed no taste from the get go.

6. Lock

Although bite valves shouldn’t release water unless you have them clenched in your teeth those without a locking system can seep somewhat. 

7. Care

It’s important to empty and dry your reservoir when it’s not in use. Some have handy hang loops that make drying easier. To dry out your reservoir, blow air into the mouthpiece to empty the tube of water, then hang the bladder upside down with the tube inside to prop the reservoir open. 

Always keep a box or bag of hydration reservoir cleaning tablets on hand. Use one a month or as needed to keep your reservoir fresh testing. (See also: how to choose a water purifier.)

8. Top tip

Regularly freezing your hydration reservoir will kill most germs and bacteria that can build up inside the bladder and hose. 

The best hydration packs are among the most useful items of kit for runners, hikers and anyone who enjoys exercising outdoors because it allows you to sip water or fluids at regular intervals. But one of the most common complaints of hydration bladders is they end up dirty and unhygienic. So, the question is: how to clean a hydration bladder?

The biggest cause of dirty hydration bladders is not regularly emptying the bladder after use. Always make sure you fully empty it and then flush it through with clean water. 

It’s also a good idea to try to stick to water only. Filling a hydration bladder with water and sweetened products, such as diluting drinks, fruit juice or sports drinks is much more likely to cause a build up of bacteria inside the bladder. It’s also much more difficult to thoroughly clean out the bladder and drinking  tube if you have filled it with sugary drinks.

Leaving any kind of drinks in a hydration bladder, especially if it’s stored somewhere warm, will inevitably leave you with a dirty bladder and tube.

Top tips on how to clean a hydration bladder

When cleaning the hydration bladder there are some recommended steps to take that will aid the process:

• If it’s plain drinking water that has been used in the bladder, you can simply wash it out as much as possible.
• Try to open up the bladder up as much as possible, so that you can access all corners with clean water.
• If you have used mixers or sports drinks in the bladder, you’ll need to do more cleaning. Use a clean brush (a toothbrush will be useful) or a cloth to get into the corners and seams of the bladder to ensure they are wiped clean.
• If you find there is a bacteria build up, you can use cleaning tablets (there are many brands that sell bottle cleaning tablets) mixed with water and added to the bladder. The tube and valve parts can be soaked in a bowl with the cleaning tablets and water.
• Alternative products for cleaning a hydration bladder include a couple of drops of denture-cleaning tablets in water, then left to work their magic for a few hours. 
• There are natural products that can work to give bladders and water bottles a clean. One suggested recipe is 750ml warm water mixed with a handful of coarse salt, a handful of  dry rice, plus a glass of vinegar. Add the mix to the inside of the bladder and leave for a couple of hours before rinsing thoroughly with water.
• Warm water and baking soda (bicarbonate of soda) is said to work well, too.
• A specifically designed hydration bladder cleaning kit is a great purchase. Look for one that includes different sized brushes, such as a flexible long brush for the hose, a small brush for the bite valve and a big brush for the bladder. Some come with a hanging frame for drying, too.
• To dry the bladder after cleaning, hang it upside down and let it air dry. Never use a heat source, such as a hairdryer, because this can create a warm environment for bacteria to grow.
• A great tip when drying the bag is to place something small and non-sharp inside the bladder to keep the walls apart for easier drying – you can use kitchen paper or even tube itself. 

Clean the drinking tube, too

As well as cleaning the hydration bladder itself, you should pay attention to the the drinking tube, too.  

• To clean the drinking tube, open or disconnect the bite valve and then fill the bladder with water and force the water through the tube by rolling or kneading the bladder. For a more thorough clean, use warm soapy water and then rinse. 
• The cleaning solutions above can also be utilised in the drinking tube.
• To clean the tube thoroughly due to residue of sweet drinks, you might want to use a long, thin brush designed for the purpose.
• The drinking valve will need a bit of a clean as well but the best method is simply to give it a wash in warm, soapy water. Avoid taking the valve apart because it is unlikely to work as well again.

How often should I clean a hydration bladder?

• You should rinse the hydration bladder after each use. Every couple of weeks of consistent use, you should give the bladder and parts a more thorough clean, especially if you fill the bladder with sweetened fluids.
• Store the hydration bladder and tube when it is completely dry. Leave it in a clean, dry and cool place until you need to use it again for hiking, running or outdoor exercise. 

Inov-8 Race Ultra Pro 5 Vest: first impressions

The Inov-8 Race Ultra Pro 5 Vest is a very good option for trail racers who prefer to carry their liquid in soft flasks instead of a hydration reservoir (if not there are loads of alternatives that might take your fancy in our best hydration packs buying guide). It carts its two 500ml soft flasks in an angled position lower on the chest, but the liquid is easily accessible from the flasks’ long drinking tubes. 

It’s a bit of a bare-bones, minimalistic pack, but there’s also a surprising amount of storage in four elastic mesh pouches and three zippered pockets for all those hiking essentials. But the best part of this pack is that, no matter how full, it rides close to the body and doesn’t bounce. (There are also dedicated cinch cord straps for stowing collapsible trekking poles.) 

All of those smart, intricate storage and design elements allow the wearer to run uninhibitedly without worry about the pack or its contents. There is room for a hydration reservoir and tube management ports, but, unfortunately, no hook or clip to hold the reservoir in place. 

Inov-8 Race Ultra Pro 5 Vest: on the trails

This is another pack we tested in simulated race conditions in the foothills and mountains west of Boulder. We generally liked the 500ml soft flask bottles that sit in pouches along the hips and wondered why other pack companies hadn’t thought of that. 

Even though there is added weight from the longer drinking tubes, it’s a system that helps spread some of the weight of the water away from the shoulders and allowed us to get into and maintain a consistent running rhythm. 

We found the quality, location and performance of the straps and pockets were spot-on for a running pack, eliminating the need to take it off, even at aid stations. 

Initially there seemed to be a lot of elastic pull cords to manage, but once we adjusted the pack for our needs it was never an issue. We appreciated the lightweight, meshy pack and strap design, especially on hot, sweaty running endeavors.