Best Running Vests of 2025

The right running vest can carry everything you need for a long run in the mountains. Photo: iRunFar/Eszter Horanyi

The running vest, also called a running hydration pack or hydration vest, is important in nearly any runner’s gear collection. There are tons of running vest options on the market these days, and choosing the best hydration pack for running can feel overwhelming. Whether running for an hour in the heat and carrying enough water to stay hydrated or heading into the mountains for an all-day outing where you’ll need a lot more gear, there’s an excellent option out there.

Although a handheld water bottle or a running belt might suffice for a shorter run, a hydration vest can help you comfortably carry food, hydration, communication devices, first aid, layers, trekking poles, and more.

Choosing the right running vest can be daunting, with packs ranging from minimalist designs intended for racing to those that can hold everything you need for a full-day unsupported run through the mountains. Our team of trail runners scoured the market for the best hydration packs for running available and took the most promising of them out on all sorts of terrain to test their comfort, functionality, and durability so that we can help make your search for the perfect pack easier.

Ultimately, we chose the Patagonia Slope Runner Vest running vest as our favorite small running vest and the UltrAspire Alpha 6.0 Race Vest for longer runs requiring more gear. When it came to carrying everything and the kitchen sink, our testers opted for the Salomon Adv Skin 12 running vest.

For more background information about the best hydration packs for trail running, see our buying advice, testing methodology, and frequently asked questions below the picks.

Best Running Vests of 2025

• Best Running Vest— Small: Patagonia Slope Runner Vest
• Best Running Vest — Medium: UltrAspire Alpha 6.0 Race Vest
• Best Running Vest — Large: Salomon Adv Skin 12
• Best Budget Running Vest: UltrAspire Spry 5.0
• Other Top Running Vests: Osprey Duro 1.5 and Osprey Dyna 1.5, Nathan Pinnacle 4 Liter Hydration Race Vest, CamelBak Zephyr Pro Vest, USWE Pace 8L Trail Running Vest

A properly sized hydration pack can carry everything you need for a mountain run. Photo: iRunFar/Eszter Horanyi

Best Running Vest — Small: Patagonia Slope Runner Vest ($170)

Pros:

• Breathable
• Simple design
• Easy to replace bottles while wearing

Cons: 

• Clasp design is finicky and not our favorite
• Small, loose items in the back pockets jostle while running

We love the Patagonia Slope Runner Vest for its lightweight comfort, breathability, and easy functionality. It’s the perfect little pack if you want to grab two soft flasks, a handful of snacks, a jacket, and just go. Its minimalist design means it has everything you need and nothing extra to complicate things.

This pack can be adjusted using two front sternum straps, two side bungee cords, and two bungee cords at the shoulders. Once adjusted to a comfortable fit, our testers found that this pack doesn’t bounce. The body of this vest features a thin mesh that’s stretchy and breathable, allowing you to carry plenty of gear without overheating.

The running vest comes with two Patagonia-branded 500-milliliter soft flasks. Hydrapak manufactures these flasks, meaning the tops are interchangeable with most other flasks in the running market. The flasks fit securely inside two front pockets and can easily slide in and out for refilling, even while wearing the loaded pack. Two additional stretchy mesh pockets on the front of the pack hold plenty of nutrition, gloves, a headlamp, and other supplies.

A horizontal mesh sleeve across the back is excellent for carrying a lightweight jacket, hat, gloves, or extra food. Items in this pocket are easy to access without taking the pack off. However, one thing that bothered our testers was that if you only had gels or nutrition in the back pocket, they would bounce around, though nothing ever fell out during testing.

Above this mesh sleeve is another pocket with a zippered closure. This pocket is ideal for securing items you want to carry on a run but do not need easy access, such as a first aid kit and satellite communication device. Other details on this pack include trekking pole attachments on the lower back and each side in the front. iRunFar recommends carrying poles on the back of the pack to reduce the risk of injury in case of a fall.

Our only gripe with this pack is the hooks on the front sternum straps, which we found to be fiddly and difficult to attach. A simple buckle system like that on many other vests in this guide is easier to use, and the bungee-and-hook system on Salomon packs still feels the most streamlined.

You can read more about the specifics of this vest in our in-depth Patagonia Slope Runner Vest review.

Gear Capacity: About 3 liters | Liquid Capacity: 1 liter | Hydration Carrying Method: Two 500-milliliter Hydrapak soft flasks (included) | Model Options: Unisex

The Patagonia Slope Runner Vest. Photo: iRunFar/Eszter Horanyi

Best Running Vest — Medium: UltrAspire Alpha 6.0 Race Vest ($140)

Pros:

• Comfortable harness and easy-to-use front cinch closure eliminate pressure points and keep the pack stable
• Less compressive fit than other brands
• Many thoughtful details and well-designed storage compartments
• Affordable and good value

Cons:

• Heavier material increases weight and retains some heat
• Front pocket layout isn’t our favorite

As a mid-volume running vest, the UltrAspire Alpha 6.0 Race Vest can bridge the gap between wanting to carry the bare minimum but not quite needing the capacity for a full-day unsupported journey. This pack is an excellent size for a three-plus-hour run or a supported ultramarathon where you may need to go a couple of hours between aid stations, but don’t need to carry your whole day’s worth of nutrition and water. It’s also an excellent option for ultras that don’t have an extensive gear list. This running vest has a six-liter capacity and thoughtful features, which made it our tester’s top pick among medium-sized options.

UltrAspire’s ErgoFit harness design has curved and angled shoulder straps for comfort and also lowers the center of gravity of the vest to reduce neck fatigue, improve weight distribution and stability, and enhance the arm’s range of motion. We found that this vest sits lower than most Salomon packs, but we didn’t think it detracted from the overall fit or functionality of the pack. The shoulder straps are such that they stay away from the back of the neck, minimizing the chance of chafing. This vest fits snugly without feeling constricting when breathing deeply — exactly what you’d hope for from a race vest.

The front of the pack has two large pockets that can fit quick-access items like food and gels and hold a pair of 500-milliliter soft flasks. We found that they also fit the slightly longer Salomon flasks and have bungees at the top to keep them from slipping down. Since the pockets are lower on the chest than on many other hydration vests, you must remove the bottles or flasks to take a drink. While this may annoy some, the pockets are wide enough to make reinserting the flasks easy. We decided that it wasn’t a deal-breaker for us. Two zippered side pockets under the arms will fit some calories and securely keep smaller items like keys or chapstick.

It’s worth noting that there are two additional pockets underneath the flask pockets, which could be useful if you’re not carrying water, but they feel impossible to access and use when there are full flasks in the vest.

The rear compartment spans the length of the pack, providing extra storage capacity, and fits the included two-liter hydration bladder in a separate sleeve with a removable Mylar-insulated insert to maintain your liquids’ temperature. A pass-through pocket and elastic cinch cord provide additional quick-access rear storage for an extra layer or snack.

This vest received a few thoughtful updates this year, the biggest being that UltrAspire fixed a pole-carrying system that simply didn’t work very well on the previous version of this vest. You can still secure poles on the bottom of the main rear pocket, but the bungees are situated much farther apart and a bit higher on the vest. They hold poles much more securely.

The back has lightweight honeycomb mesh next to the body that wicks moisture well, but the other vest materials are thicker than those of similar packs. We found that this vest didn’t breathe quite as well as a similarly sized Salomon pack. This may improve its long-term durability, but it makes the pack heavier. The profile of this pack can feel long for smaller runners or those with a shorter torso.

The elastic cinch cord sternum closure is fixed but quite comfortable with a simple hook, which minimizes fumbling with a complicated buckle with tired or cold fingers.

If you want to read more about the previous version of this pack, which is very similar in many ways to the updated version, you can check out our UltrAspire Alpha 5.0 Race Vest review. Stay tuned for a full review of the new version of this vest.

Gear Capacity: 6 liters | Liquid Capacity: 3 liters | Hydration Carrying Method: Two 500-milliliter flasks (included) or 2-liter hydration bladder (sold separately) | Model Options: Unisex

Best Running Vest — Large: Salomon Adv Skin 12 ($165)

Pros:

• It is just as comfortable full as it is with minimal gear
• Stretch compartments hold a lot of gear and distribute weight well
• Stretch panels conform snugly to the body without compressing

Cons:

• Flasks can be difficult to get back into their sleeves when removed

Look around the starting line of almost any ultramarathon, and you will see many runners wearing the Salomon Adv Skin 12 running vest. This is for good reason! Salomon released an updated version of this vest this year with many smaller tweaks, and we’re pleased with the changes. The previous version of this 12-liter vest was our testers’ hands-down favorite in the high-volume running vest category, and we think the new version only got better. Notably, Salomon also got rid of the women’s version of this vest, which we’re okay with since even our women testers preferred the unisex version of the old vest.

We think this is the perfect pack for long days on the trail and self-supported adventures where you’ll carry your gear and nutrition for the entire day. It can fit a massive amount of cargo for a vest that wears equally as comfortably when empty.

The inner mesh of the pack is slightly different from the old one, with a honeycomb mesh with bigger perforations. It uses the same Sensifit construction to haul a serious amount of gear while maintaining a snug vest-like fit. The front pocket setup is essentially the same as before, with two flask pockets that hold the included 500-milliliter Salomon soft flasks. These are overlayed with two other stretchy pockets that you access from the top, and then each side also has a zippered pocket to hold small do-not-lose essentials. These zippered pockets will hold fairly large phones securely. Our testers found the flasks were a little tricky to get back into their sleeves compared to other packs with wider flask pockets, but we also didn’t have any issue drinking from the flasks when they were still in their pockets, so this was only an issue when refilling flasks.

Salomon got rid of the partition in the rear bladder pocket, so now a bladder will sit directly against the mesh material of the inner part of the vest. We suspect this will result in cold water in a bladder getting warmer more quickly since it’s closer to the skin. A vertical side zipper accesses the large rear main compartment with impressive stretch to fit all the gear you need for a full day of running, and bungee compression cords on either side of the back help stabilize the load.

A smaller stuff pocket inside the main pocket can fit an emergency blanket, gloves, hat, or small jacket, and the pass-through tunnel pocket across the bottom of the rear compartment provides additional storage for easy access on the go. Salomon also relocated the key clip to the inside of the main back pocket to get it out of the way. Because this pack is just as comfortable when it’s empty as when we stuffed it to the gills, it’s an excellent option for people wanting a single pack to do it all.

There are multiple attachment options for carrying trekking poles on the front and rear, and Salomon upgraded the rear pole bungees by changing their angle on the pack and making them tighten from the bottom. In our opinion, both are great upgrades. You can also easily attach a separate Salomon quiver to hold poles.

To learn more about the previous version of this pack, check out our in-depth Salomon Adv Skin 12 review, and watch for a full review of the new version.

Gear Capacity: 12 liters | Liquid Capacity: 2.5 liters | Hydration Carrying Method: Two 500-milliliter soft flasks (included), 1.5-liter hydration bladder (sold separately) | Model Options: Unisex

The Salomon Adv Skin 12 running vest. Photo: iRunFar/Eszter Horanyi

Best Budget Running Vest: UltrAspire Spry 5.0 Race Vest ($90)

Pros:

• Lightweight and breathable
• Very affordable, even with the extra cost of bottles or a hydration bladder
• Quality materials and improved pocket setup

Cons:

• One-size-fits-most sizing may not accommodate all bodies
• Rear storage is inaccessible while wearing the pack

The UltrAspire Spry 5.0 Race Vest is a 3.5-liter capacity pack that offers excellent storage and features at an affordable price, though this newest upgrade also came with a $15 increase. The materials are breathable and lightweight, and there are just enough pockets to hold your essentials for anything from a half marathon to a fast, well-supported ultra run. In addition to being our budget pick, this vest also rated very highly overall in the small vest testing category.

We found that the updates to this vest only improved its functionality. Our main tester, who wrote the UltrAspire Spry 3.0 review and the UltrAspire 4.0 review, says this version is the best yet. The flask pockets were updated to be vertical, and our tester says they are finally big enough to fit any soft flasks. These front pockets are also great for holding snacks and other small items. The pockets overlaying the flask pockets are perfect to securely stash snacks, trash, and other small items.

A single rear pocket, including a sweatproof liner, can fit a one-liter bladder. The pack also has many smaller pockets, including one with a magnetic closure. An external elastic shock cord on the back can stash a jacket.

This vest utilizes the same ErgoFit harness and an elastic chest strap-and-hook closure as the above-reviewed UltrAspire Alpha 6.0 Race Vest. The biggest upgrade to this vest is in its fit. For the first time, the side straps of the vest are stretchy and soft, making this one-size-fits-most vest more accommodating to various body shapes and sizes. According to UltrAspire’s size chart, it can fit chest sizes from 26 to 48 inches.

The vest doesn’t include flasks or a hydration bladder, which will add cost if you want them. Even with having to buy flasks or a bladder, this vest is still more affordable than most similar setups.

Keep an eye on this space for a complete review of the new UltrAspire Spry 5.0 Race Vest.

Gear Capacity: 3.5 liters | Liquid Capacity: 2 liters | Hydration Carrying Method: Two 500-milliliter flasks or hybrid bottles in the front and a 1-liter bladder in the rear pocket. Flasks and bladder sold separately | Model Options: Unisex, one size fits most

Other Top Running Vests

Osprey Dyna 1.5 ($120) and Osprey Duro 1.5 ($120)

Osprey Duro 1.5

Pros:

• Generous liquid-carrying capacity for its size
• Easily repositioned sternum straps to dial in the fit

Cons:

• The material is thicker and heavier than some other packs

The Osprey Duro 1.5 and women’s-specific Osprey Dyna 1.5 are low-volume, race-ready running vests with everything you need for short and fast days on the trail. A rear zip compartment fits the included 1.5-liter hydration reservoir, and two large front stretch pockets can fit nutrition, small bits of gear, or Osprey’s 500-milliliter or 360-milliliter soft flasks; however, you’ll have to purchase those separately.

Our testers noted that the rear pocket could not fit additional gear with the hydration bladder, but there is an exterior bungee cinch cord to carry a jacket or extra layer. Two stretch pockets under the arms can fit a buff, a hat, gloves, or other smaller items. There is also a smaller front zip pocket to hold a few other small items securely. The rear hydration bladder compartment has a diagonal zipper opening. You can route the hydration bladder hose through this zipper on the right or a separate port on the left.

The sternum strap secures with plastic snaps that clip on each shoulder strap instead of having a center buckle, making it easy to adjust the positioning to your comfort. Our testers found the arm holes to run a little on the small side, so you may need to size up if you have broader arms or shoulders. The material is a little thicker and heavier than some of the other tested packs, but it is very durable while maintaining breathability.

Osprey Dyna 1.5

The front has a safety whistle and a place to attach trekking poles when not actively using them. For a small-capacity pack, it includes many thoughtful details and has a hydration capacity on par with many larger packs.

If you love the fit and function of this running vest but are looking for something with more gear storage capacity, Osprey also offers a six-liter version of the Duro and Dyna that you can learn more about in our Osprey Dyna 6/Duro 6 review.

Gear Capacity: 1.5 liters | Liquid Capacity: 2.5 liters | Hydration Carrying Method: 1.5-liter hydration bladder (included) and can fit two 360-milliliter or 500-milliliter soft flasks in front pockets (sold separately) | Model Options: Gender-specific, Duro (men’s) and Dyna (women’s)

Shop the Osprey Duro 1.5Shop the Osprey Dyna 1.5

Nathan Pinnacle 4 Liter Hydration Race Vest ($180)

Pros:

• Lightweight material
• Actual storage capacity exceeds the stated four liters
• Water-resistant pockets to keep a phone or other small items protected

Cons:

• Pricey, particularly for this capacity range
• Runs big, may need to size down
• No hydration bladder included, which adds cost to an already expensive pack

The Nathan Pinnacle 4 Liter Hydration Race Vest is a breathable, lightweight running vest with easy access to hydration and gear for shorter trail runs and well-supported ultras. This hydration vest features a familiar front pocket setup with two larger stretchy sleeves to fit the two included 500-milliliter flasks. These flasks feature extended drinking straws and a firm piece of plastic built in to help them maintain their shape and keep them from sinking into the pocket when empty.

Our testers didn’t experience any flopping with the straws and flasks, even when empty, which was surprising given the long straws. The front storage also includes a water-resistant zipper pocket on each side that can fit most cellphones. Our testers found the pocket tucked behind the flask pocket worked well, but put increased pressure on the ribs with a phone in the pocket and a full soft flask on top of it.

The stretchy rear compartment can fit a 1.5-liter bladder, and there is also a vertical trekking pole pocket that our testers found worked well and kept their poles from bouncing. Small stretch pockets over the front flask sleeves, stretch compartments under the arms, and two kangaroo pockets across the lower back provide additional storage for your long-run or race-day needs.

Our testers found the fabric soft and comfortable against the body. The nylon sternum straps feature standard buckle closures mounted on a sliding rail that allows you to easily adjust their position up and down the front of the pack. There is a unisex and women-specific model, and we found both to run on the larger side.

You can use a measurement-based sizing guide on Nathan’s website to help you determine the correct size, but if you’re between sizes, we suggest sizing down. Finally, a larger 12-liter version of this vest is available for those who need to carry more gear for longer runs.

This vest is also available in a women’s version with the same layout as the unisex version but with a slightly different shape and sizing.

Gear Capacity: 4 liters | Liquid Capacity: 2.8 liters (can fit a standard 1.5-liter bladder or Nathan’s 1.6-liter or 1.8-liter hourglass-shaped bladders) | Hydration Carrying Method: Two 500-milliliter front flasks with straws (included), rear hydration bladder up to 1.8 liters (sold separately) | Model Options: Unisex and women’s-specific models

Shop the Nathan Pinnacle 4 Liter Hydration Race VestShop the Nathan Pinnacle 4 Liter Women's Hydration Race Vest

Other Top Running Vests: CamelBak Zephyr Pro Vest ($160)

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Comfortable
• Easy to adjust

Cons: 

• Front pockets are only compatible with CamelBak’s soft flasks

The CamelBak Zephyr Pro Vest is a mid- to large-sized hydration pack that works well for half- to full-day running adventures. It’s lightweight, with light colors and breathable mesh that keep it from feeling too hot. Yet it has plenty of storage for a self-supported day in the mountains. It comes in a unisex and women’s version with the same layout but slightly different shapes and sizing, and we tested both.

This running vest has several front pockets for keeping nutrition and other small essentials close at hand. Two mesh pockets hold CamelBak’s soft flasks, which come with the pack. One of our only gripes about this vest, and other products from the brand, is that we’ve found that the CamelBak flasks tend to leak unless you really crank the lids.

Two zippered pockets are large enough for a phone, and one side has a clip to secure a car or house key within the zippered pocket. Finally, the front right side has one more small pocket to hold another gel or two. We were impressed with how much we could carry in the front of this pack.

On the back is a zippered pocket large enough for a jacket, first aid kit, gloves, headlamp, and other gear for a full day out. If you’re using trekking poles, this pack has a removable, stowable quiver. Unfortunately, this is the only way to store poles on this pack, so if you don’t like the quiver system, you’re out of luck. There are several options for carrying water, though. In addition to carrying two soft flasks in the front pocket, this pack can accommodate a two-liter bladder (not included) and has webbing loops for securing the tube on each shoulder strap.

Unlike many hydration packs, this one has additional adjustment straps under the arms and traditional sternum adjustment straps. You can tighten these extra straps for bounce-free comfort. iRunFar testers appreciated that this vest was comfortable and easy to adjust. Other thoughtful details on this pack include reflective accents and a built-in safety whistle.

Our biggest gripe with this running vest is that the front hydration pockets are sized specifically for CamelBak’s soft flasks and are too short and wide for the standard Hydrapak soft flasks used in almost every other running vest. This makes it challenging to swap fresh water bottles quickly in a race, for example, if you already have the more common long and narrow soft flasks in your collection. That said, this may not be an issue if you prefer running with a bladder or are happy using the included CamelBak flasks.

You can read more about this vest in our full CamelBak Zephyr Pro Vest review.

Gear Capacity: 11 liters | Liquid Capacity: 1 liter | Hydration Carrying Method: Two 17-ounce soft flasks (included) | Model Options: Unisex and women’s-specific models

The CamelBak Zephyr Pro Vest. Photo: iRunFar/Eszter Horanyi

USWE Pace 8L Trail Running Vest ($140)

Pros:

• Simple chest buckle and elastic side cords for easy adjustments
• Harness design eliminates bounce without feeling tight or constrictive
• Lightweight and breathable

Cons:

• Flasks have narrow openings that are hard to refill, and straws can shift and bounce around
• Rear storage is not easily accessible while wearing the pack
• The only pole-carrying option is across the front of the vest

The Swedish company USWE (pronounced “you-swii”) originated in the off-road motorcycle and bicycle world. Their foray into running hydration packs includes the USWE Pace 8L Trail Running Vest. Their experience and innovation in other outdoor worlds have led to some unique features for this vest that make it stand out in the mid-volume pack category.

This eight-liter running vest features USWE’s signature “No Dancing Monkey” harness system, providing a secure fit with no bounce. The front closure system is unique, with one large circular buckle that our testers praised for its simplicity and ease of use. The pack’s adjustment points are elastic draw cords on the sides that cinch to tighten the fit while allowing breathing room.

The material is very lightweight, stretchy, and comfortable, expanding easily to accommodate gear. A bonus is a Polygiene material treatment, which prevents odor and improves the pack’s longevity.

Two front pockets carry the included pair of 500-milliliter soft flasks. These are oriented lower on the body and have attached drinking straws to allow for sipping on the go without having to remove the flask. The flasks have relatively small openings, which we found inconvenient for refilling, especially if using an electrolyte powder or drink mix. Two stretch pockets over the flask pockets are nicely expandable and can fit a cellphone, gels, and other smaller items.

The rear compartment can fit a two-liter bladder (not included) and utilizes two pull-tight straps on the shoulders to compress the bladder, securing it and preventing movement and bouncing. Two zippered pockets along the lower rear of the pack provide secure storage. These overlie each other and can be challenging to reach with the pack on, making them less convenient than an open-ended kangaroo-style pocket.

One of these compartments has a zipper opening on the bottom, which could result in lost gear if not fully zipped. There is reduced storage space underneath the arms due to the pack’s cinch system.

The trekking pole attachment sits diagonally across the front of the pack, which can interfere with the storage pockets and may be uncomfortable for runners with narrow builds or larger chests. At iRunFar, we also discourage the storage of trekking poles on the front of the body due to the risk of injury in case of a fall.

If you like the fit and design of this vest but are looking for a lower-capacity race-ready vest, USWE also makes a two-liter version with the same design and fit but eliminates the larger rear pocket. You can check it out at our USWE Pace 2 Running Vest review.

Gear Capacity: 8 liters | Liquid Capacity: 3 liters | Hydration Carrying Method: Two 500-milliliter straw soft flasks (included) and can fit a 2-liter bladder (sold separately) in the rear | Model Options: Unisex

Comparing the Best Running Vests

Testing running vests in Ventura County’s Santa Monica Mountains. Photo: iRunFar/Eszter Horanyi

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Running Vest

Vest Size

One of the main differences between the best running vests on the market is size. Brands typically measure pack capacity in liters, much like a hiking or backpacking pack. Running hydration vests are generally much smaller than a traditional backpack and are designed to be form-fitting and vest-like to minimize the pack bouncing around. Brands typically break up storage capacity into multiple pockets and compartments across the back and front chest area instead of having one large rear pocket like a traditional backpack.

While many variables go into choosing the best hydration pack for running, a good rule of thumb is to select a pack size based on how long you will be out on the trails and how much gear you’ll need to carry for weather, conditions, and navigation.

For shorter runs of less than two hours or a race with frequent access to aid stations, a pack with two to five liters of capacity, like the Patagonia Slope Runner Vest or the Nathan Pinnacle 4 Liter Hydration Race Vest, will be adequate to carry your hydration, food, and essentials.

For runs that are in the three- to six-hour range or in more challenging or slow-going terrain, one of the midsize packs, such as the USWE Pace 8L Trail Running Vest or UltrAspire Alpha 6.0 Race Vest, will give you a little extra storage space for gear and liquid carrying capacity.

For all-day adventures or runs in more remote and extreme terrain, which require extra gear and layers to guard against changing weather, a larger pack in the 12- to 15-liter range, like the Salomon Adv Skin 12, will be needed. The CamelBak Zephyr Pro Vest is also big enough for many all-day self-supported runs. If you are considering a race with a mandatory kit, frequent in many European races, this larger capacity is the best choice for stowing your rain jacket, layers, headlamp, and other required items.

Running-specific hydration packs max out in the 15-liter capacity range. If you are looking for a larger capacity pack for a longer or multi-day adventure, check out our Best Fastpacking Packs guide, as these will better serve the needs of that type of run or hike. That said, some on the iRunFar team are willing to engage in “shiver bivys” for overnight trips and can fit all their gear into a 12-liter pack.

Regardless of the terrain you run on, you want a running pack that will fit snugly and securely. Photo: iRunFar/Eszter Horanyi

Fit and Adjustability

Running hydration packs are close-fitting, with a vest-like wraparound style that sits higher on your torso than a traditional backpack. This fit makes it easier to access storage on the go and keeps the pack close to your body to prevent it from shifting and moving around when you run, which can cause chafing and even bruising over time.

The best running vests feature material with some give so they can move with you while you are running and breathing. They typically have at least one point of adjustment—most often an adjustable chest strap that tightens and loosens the pack easily on the fly. The USWE Pace 8L Trail Running Vest has a unique front adjustment system that is simple to use, which is ideal during long efforts where you’ll get tired or in the cold when your fingers may lose dexterity.

Many running vests, including the CamelBak Zephyr Pro Vest and the Patagonia Slope Runner Vest,  have additional adjustment areas on the sides of the pack to create a hug-like fit.

All hydration pack manufacturers have different sizing and fit, so it is important to review their brand-specific measurement and fit guides to be sure you are selecting the correct size and fit. The most important measurements for pack fitting are around the widest part of your chest and the bottom of your ribcage. It’s worth noting that the Nathan Pinnacle 4 Liter Hydration Race Vest tends to run a little big.

Your best option for choosing a correctly sized pack is to go into a running specialty store and try on a variety of options. There are also differences in preferences when it comes to pack sizing. Some people like their packs super snug, while others want a little breathing room.

Note that your pack will fit differently when empty versus fully loaded with hydration, food, and gear. When trying a pack on for the first time, you’ll find that you can get the best fit if you load a long run’s worth of essentials — or some volume resembling it. Loosen all the straps completely, then tighten the sternum and side adjustments until they feel secure but not uncomfortably constrictive.

Maggie Guterl tests phone storage on a running hydration pack. Photo: iRunFar/Eszter Horanyi

On the front of the pack, some designs have a vertical sliding rail to adjust the position of the sternum straps, while others have a hook or “T” attachment with several fabric loops along the front to allow you to customize the fit by changing the position of the straps across your chest.

This extra layer of adjustability across the chest will enable runners of all shapes and sizes to find the best fit for them. A hydration pack should fit snugly but not restrictively, and you should be able to twist your trunk, swing your arms, and breathe easily without the pack shifting or excessively bouncing.

Several of the best hydration packs on the market come in a gender-specific fit, meaning anything from smaller sizes and colors to a completely different pocket and hydration-carrying configuration. It’s important to note that these changes don’t always translate to a better fit. For all of the vests included in this guide, there wasn’t a huge difference between the unisex and women’s specific versions aside from the torso length being shorter and differently shaped to accommodate specific body shapes. While the Osprey Duro 1.5 and Dyna 1.5 have different names and slightly different fits, they are very similar vests. The same goes for the CamelBak Zephyr Pro Vest and the Nathan Pinnacle 4 Liter Hydration Race Vest, both of which have unisex and women’s versions with essentially the same pocket layouts.

Breathability

When temperatures rise, a hydration vest allows you to carry the water you need on a run. Unfortunately, a hydration pack also adds extra material to your back and chest, increasing heat retention and sweating. The factors that most impact the pack’s breathability are the inner mesh that contacts your body, the outer material, and the amount of your back and chest the vest covers. All of the packs we tested have some type of lightweight mesh material lining next to the body, usually polyester, that is perforated to improve ventilation and moisture wicking.

Packs that scored very highly among testers for breathability, such as the UltrAspire Spry 5.0 Race Vest, UltrAspire Alpha 6.0 Race Vest, and USWE Pace 8L Trail Running Vest, all have a mesh lining and pockets made of lightweight stretchy materials to allow for good airflow. There are no water-resistant panels to retain moisture and heat, and any insulating panels are removable. The breathability factor will weigh more heavily for those frequently running in hot conditions.

Tyler Green wears an Osprey Duro 1.5 during the early miles of the 2024 Western States 100. Photo: iRunFar/Eszter Horanyi

Water Capacity

The main point of a running hydration pack is, well, hydration! Most hydration packs carry fluids in two ways: a pair of 500-milliliter soft flasks in front pockets on the chest or in a hydration reservoir, commonly called a bladder, that fits in a rear compartment on your back. Many packs can accommodate both, and whichever carry method you choose is a matter of personal preference.

The water capacity of running hydration packs varies significantly. Smaller packs, including the Nathan Pinnacle 4 Liter Hydration Race Vest and Patagonia Slope Runner Vest, can typically hold around one to two liters of fluids comfortably, while larger packs for longer runs can hold three liters or more. The relatively small and compact Osprey Duro 1.5 and Osprey Dyna 1.5 can carry up to 3.5 liters of water if you really want to.

We recommend determining the amount of water-carrying capacity you need in your pack by the type of terrain and conditions you most frequently encounter. A smaller capacity pack will do the trick for shorter runs or races with frequent aid stations. Easy access to water sources, such as stream crossings, can also lighten your load, as you can filter water along the way. You can check out our Best Water Filters for Trail Running guide to learn more.

For long days without easy access to water or in scorching weather, a larger pack, like the Salomon Adv Skin 12, that can fit at least a two-liter reservoir and two 500-milliliter flasks, is the best choice.

A mid- to large-sized running pack can hold everything you need for a day in the mountains. Photo: iRunFar/Eszter Horanyi

Soft Flasks or Bladders

As mentioned above, running hydration packs generally have two ways to carry water: flasks or bottles and a hydration bladder. Choosing the best hydration pack for running comes down to weighing comfort, ease of gear access, and the water-carrying capacity.

Larger-capacity packs, like the Salomon Adv Skin 12, make it easy to carry a lot of water comfortably with a combination of flask and bladder storage options, and they can also carry extra layers, a first-aid kit, nutrition, and everything else you need for a big day out on the trails.

The design and technology behind the best hydration packs for running have changed over the past decade, with the earliest versions being essentially a water reservoir inside a small backpack. A bladder in the back of the pack is still a go-to for many hydration pack designs, as we see with the Osprey Duro 1.5 and Osprey Dyna 1.5, though two soft flasks in the front are gradually becoming the most common design.

Bladders are the easiest way to carry large amounts of liquid. Most packs can fit a two-liter bladder fairly easily. Using a bladder instead of soft flasks frees up front pockets for stashing essentials like nutrition and your phone in an easy-to-reach place. On the negative side, hydration bladders tend to slosh more if there is excess air in them and add extra weight to your back, which some runners don’t like.

It is also more difficult to keep track of how much you are drinking with the bladder since it is out of sight. Refilling a bladder is also more cumbersome and time-consuming than soft flasks, which is something to consider if you’re racing.

While a few running vest options have a rear bottle holster, most running hydration packs use 500- to 600-milliliter (20-ounce) bottles or collapsible soft flasks in front pockets. Soft flasks give quick access to your fluids, making refilling easy without taking the pack off. They also make it much easier to mix and match your hydration needs with electrolyte drink mixes, plain water, or even soda (because sometimes ginger ale or Coke are the only things that work, am I right?).

On the downside, two 500-milliliter soft flasks will only give you one liter of liquid capacity. They also usually sit in front pockets over the chest, which may be uncomfortable for some runners, especially those with larger chests.

Pocket Placement and Storage

While hydration may be the primary function of your running pack, the gear-carrying ability of the best running vests sets them ahead of the rest. Pocket size and placement are crucial to the organization and functionality of the pack. Easy access to essentials on the go and secure storage for extra gear and valuables are key features of our favorite packs. The Salomon Adv Skin 12 has enough pockets to carry many items easily and securely, and has a pocket setup that our team has enjoyed for many years.

The most common pocket arrangement for running hydration packs is a combination of smaller front pockets and larger rear compartments, with some packs utilizing the material under the arms for storage. A few vests, including the CamelBak Zephyr Pro Vest, put adjustment straps under the arms instead of pockets. The best pockets are stretchy enough to expand their capacity and elastic enough to prevent sagging and bouncing. Brands usually separate front storage into pockets designed to hold a soft flask and additional compartments overlying these for small items such as nutrition, lip balm, a cellphone, and more.

A running vest is an excellent way to carry many items necessary for long days in the mountains. Photo: iRunFar/Eszter Horanyi

All but the smallest running hydration packs have at least one storage pocket on the back, usually a pouch spanning the length of the pack that holds a hydration bladder and also secures a jacket, extra layers, a first-aid kit, and other gear that does not need to be quickly accessible. Most running vests add additional storage capacity by adding stretchy overlay pockets onto the larger back compartment to provide extra room without adding excessive weight.

Common rear storage and pocket arrangements include an inner sleeve inside a single large back pocket to separate it into two compartments, a top-loading or kangaroo-type tunnel pocket across the bottom for access to gear without removing the pack, an open stuff pocket on the outer part of the pack, or bungee cinch cord attached to the outer compartment. The rear of the Patagonia Slope Runner Vest has a very standard pocket setup.

In addition to the basic storage setup of the pack, there are a few extra details that are worth considering depending on your intended use of a pack. Secure closures, such as zippers, Velcro, or clasps, are an important consideration if you do a lot of bending, scrambling, or taking your pack on and off frequently to avoid inadvertently dropping or losing important gear.

A water-resistant pocket for valuables such as your key or cellphone may be an important addition in wet climates or all-day rainy ultras. Perhaps the most important pocket add-on detail is a key clip, because no one wants to return to their car or home to discover that their key has dropped out of their pocket somewhere along the trail.

While most running vests are relatively similar, some differences and nuances exist in clasps, fit, and pocket placements. Photo: iRunFar/Eszter Horanyi

Clasps and Closure System

A running vest’s chest strap closure system is a small detail that significantly impacts fit and functionality. Although our favorite packs vary somewhat in their closure systems, simplicity and ease of use are the most important features of any system. In the case of the USWE Pace 8L Trail Running Vest, one single large buckle centered on the chest is about as simple as it gets!

The most common chest strap closure is a simple buckle, similar to a traditional backpack sternum closure. These are easy to use and typically do not require much focus or dexterity, which is important for cold fingers and tired brains. The Osprey Duro 1.5 and the Osprey Dyna 1.5 employ a slightly different variation of the plastic buckle closure, with plastic clips attached to the sternum straps, while the Nathan Pinnacle 4 Liter Hydration Race Vest and CamelBak Zephyr Pro Vest have simple buckles.

Another commonly used chest strap closure is a cord that stretches across the chest and attaches to a plastic hook. The strap adjusts by pulling the cord through a bungee clasp system to tighten and loosen it as needed. The Salomon Adv Skin 12, UltrAspire Alpha 6.0 Race Vest, and the UltrAspire Spry 5.0 Race Vest use some form of this closure.

This system’s adjustability on the fly and ability to stretch with chest expansion while breathing set it apart from traditional strap options. These closures require a bit more dexterity to align the strap over the hooks and thus can be tricky in very cold conditions or while wearing gloves.

Durability

Hydration packs are expensive and a significant investment for most runners, but they should last a long time. A pack’s durability depends on the fabric type, clasps, and cords used in its construction, as well as your use and care.

Depending on where it happens, a zipper, pocket, or clasp failure could range from a minor inconvenience to a catastrophe. Someone who runs on remote mountain ridges or goes bushwhacking through trees and rocky terrain will have different durability requirements for a pack than someone who mostly runs on gravel roads.

As with many other pieces of trail running and outdoor gear, when material weights decrease, durability also tends to decrease. The UltrAspire Alpha 6.0 Race Vest has slightly heavier material than many of the other packs in this guide, but we’ve never worried about it standing up to anything we throw at it. All the packs we tested fared well in terms of durability, with no significant tears or breakage during our testing period. Our testers have used some packs for years and years without any durability issues.

The Salomon S/Lab running vests were popular among our testers. Photo: iRunFar/Eszter Horanyi

Extra Features on the Best Running Vests

Many thoughtful details have gone into designing and constructing the best hydration packs for running. In addition to the pocket layout, materials, and fit, several additional features enhance the safety and functionality of a pack.

• Whistle — Most of the best running vests today, including the Osprey Duro 1.5 and the Osprey Dyna 1.5, have a whistle, most often attached to one of the front straps by a loop or cord. These tuck into an adjacent pocket to stay secure, yet are easily accessible when needed in an emergency. This small and simple accessory can significantly impact if you are lost or injured and need to summon help. Many races include a whistle as part of their mandatory kits.
• Trekking pole holders — Trekking poles have become a staple at mountain races and ultramarathons around the globe, and running hydration packs have a variety of ways to store poles when not in use, including front- and rear-mounted options. These are often elastic or bungee attachments that cinch poles in place, allowing easy access when needed. You can also add a quiver to the back of your pack or opt for the CamelBak Zephyr Pro Vest, which includes a removable and stowable quiver.
• Cellphone pocket — Most people carry a phone while running, and most hydration packs have a pocket that fits even larger phones. In some cases, like on the Nathan Pinnacle 4 Liter Hydration Race Vest, these pockets are water-resistant, and other packs have pockets with a zipper or cinch cord to keep the phone secure.
• Attachments for ice axes or helmets — Ice axe loops or helmet attachments are uncommon among most smaller-capacity running-specific packs, but may be an integral accessory for runners who frequent mountainous alpine terrain. Higher-capacity packs — like fastpacks — tend to include these sorts of features.

Kyle Curtin testing a hydration pack on a run in Colorado. Photo: iRunFar/Eszter Horanyi

Why You Should Trust Us

For the initial version of this guide, our testing process began with extensive research into the running hydration packs and vests available today. After compiling a list of over 130 packs ranging from small to large, we narrowed our list to 25 running packs for intensive testing.

We spent several months packing water and gear into our packs and hitting the trails, from humid U.S. East Coast ultramarathons to high-elevation mountain terrain in Colorado and everything in between. Our testers ran dirt roads to rocky ridgelines, putting in fast, flat miles and slow-moving scrambling outings.

We know that runners have various pack needs for different situations, so we tested options ranging from ones that would work well for urban runs or short races to those that could hold everything we’d need for big days in remote areas. Whether we had a pack out on a short recovery run or a long romp in the desert where we had it filled with as much water as it could carry, we were constantly assessing the wearability and functionality — especially whether or not we could get to everything we needed easily without having to take the pack off and dig through it.

Our team assessed each pack’s fit, pocket layout, ease of use, comfort, style, weight, breathability, pole-carrying ability, and durability. We also considered the flasks and/or bladders they came with and any extra features. Testers took the packs in all weather conditions, from hot and dry to cold and rainy, and everything in between, to see if we’d overheat or if the fabric got saggy when wet.

We continue to test new packs as they come on the market so that we can keep this guide updated and make it as easy as possible for you to find the best hydration pack for running that suits your specific needs.

Testing running vests in the Santa Monica Mountains. Photo: iRunFar/Eszter Horanyi

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Running Vests

When should I run with a vest?

If you must carry more gear than what will fit in your pockets or a running belt, it’s time to consider a running vest. This may be for an hour-long run in the heat or a race with a significant mandatory gear list. For shorter outings, a small pack, like the Osprey Duro 1.5 or the Osprey Dyna 1.5, can easily carry essentials and keep you from stuffing too many items into pockets. Carrying a pack is also an easy way to keep your hands free, which many of us prefer, even for short runs.

Runs in more remote locations or rugged terrain may require extra gear, like a first-aid kit, trekking poles, and additional layers. Any multi-hour adventure and almost all ultramarathon races will require a pack to carry the gear, food, and water needed for a safe, comfortable day on the trails.

What capacity hydration pack do I need?

Smaller capacity packs in the one- to five-liter range, including Nathan Pinnacle 4 Liter Hydration Race Vest, UltrAspire Spry 5.0 Race Vest, Patagonia Slope Runner Vest, and the Osprey Duro 1.5 and Osprey Dyna 1.5, are perfect for shorter runs and races where minimal gear and hydration are needed. These scenarios include two-hour runs, well-supported ultramarathons with frequent aid, or a two- to four-mile repeating loop course where you may not want a bottle in your hand the entire time but don’t need to carry hours’ worth of nutrition or gear. In these situations, you may consider wearing a running belt instead. You can explore more options in our Best Running Belts guide.

A mid-capacity pack in the six- to 11-liter range like the UltrAspire Alpha 6.0 Race Vest will give you extra storage space for food, fluids, and layers to extend your unsupported running time. For all-day runs or high-mountain adventures where you need to carry multiple extra layers and safety equipment, a high-capacity 12-plus-liter pack will be the way to go.

Most of the higher-capacity packs feature lightweight, stretchy materials that fit close to your body when not full, so if you need one pack to take you through both your two-hour training runs and your ultramarathon on race day, larger vests will expand to fit gear and also wear comfortably when not stuffed to the gills. The Salomon Adv Skin 12 was our favorite of the larger-capacity packs we tested, as it felt good whether it was mostly empty or completely full.

The zippered phone pocket of the Salomon Adv Skin 12 is big enough for nearly all phones. Photo: iRunFar/Eszter Horanyi

How should my running vest fit?

Your pack should fit snugly against your body and not shift or bounce with movement. Pack movement is both uncomfortable and can cause chafing. You will want enough room in the arms to have an unrestricted arm swing and enough space in the chest to tighten the sternum straps to secure the pack, but not restrict breathing. The Salomon Adv Skin 12 is an excellent pack that will fit snugly regardless of how full it is.

The best running hydration packs sit high on the back and torso, though your pack should not feel tight around your chest or armpits. All pack manufacturers included in this buyer’s guide have a size chart and instructions for taking proper measurements to ensure an accurate fit. We recommend using these guides and trying packs on in a specialty running store, if possible, and note that the Nathan Pinnacle 4 Liter Hydration Race Vest tends to run a bit small.

What should I carry in my running vest?

While the name implies that runners primarily use hydration packs to carry water, most use them to carry an array of items in addition to liquid. Once you square away your fluid carrying in soft flasks, bottles, or a bladder, you will want to consider the other items you want on hand while out on a run or race. Food, energy gels, and electrolyte powder are common items stashed in packs.

Depending on the weather, a hat, a pair of gloves, a buff, a jacket, or an extra layer may be in order. An emergency blanket and small first-aid kit are never a bad idea to have on hand. At the very least, some band-aids, anti-chafe butter, and tape will help in a pinch.

A cellphone for safety, music, and photos is a must-have for most of us, and a small external phone charger may also make the cut for long days, especially if using a phone for navigation. The gist is that hydration, food, and safety should always be at the top of your packing list. A pack like the Salomon Adv Skin 12 will carry everything you need for a full day in the mountains.

The front pockets of the Salomon Adv Skin 12 line of vests have been some of the best on the market for a long time. Photo: iRunFar/Eszter Horanyi

Is there a difference between men’s and women’s running vests?

For a few years, there was a push from several brands to make women’s-specific hydration packs that had different pocket configurations and sizes than the unisex packs. In many of these cases, the women’s version ended up less functional with smaller and more awkward pockets, and our women testers generally preferred the unisex options. This information seems to have made it back to design teams, as there seems to be less variation in the unisex and women’s-specific vests. Salomon, notably, has gotten rid of its women’s version of the Salomon Adv Skin 12, as well as the smaller Adv Skin 5.

Several of the vests in this guide have both a unisex and women’s version, such as the Nathan Pinnacle 4 Liter Hydration Race Vest and CamelBak Zephyr Pro Vest. These vests are very similar in layout between the unisex and women’s, but have slightly different torso shapes and sizes. The Osprey Duro 1.5 and Osprey Dyna 1.5 are also a unisex and women’s specific versions of the same pack, with only minor differences in fit and no difference in functionality.

The gender-specific designation typically doesn’t mean much in terms of the pack’s actual technical specifications and function — it simply changes the fit. We always recommend that runners choose the layout, setup, sizing, or color that suits them the best, regardless of how it’s labeled.

Running vests are an excellent way to carry extra nutrition and fuel on long runs. Photo: iRunFar/Eszter Horanyi

Should I carry my liquids in bottles, soft flasks, or a hydration bladder?

This is a matter of personal preference and may take some experimenting to see which setup you prefer. For faster runs or races where quick aid station turnaround is important, a flask or bottle is much easier to remove, refill, and replace than a bladder.

For hot days or long runs, a bladder may be preferable for its additional volume, or a combination can ensure adequate fluids. A pack like the Salomon Adv Skin 12 can easily carry three liters of liquid between a bladder and soft flasks.

What are the best hydration packs for larger chests? 

Women and men have different torso shapes, and several running vests have a women’s option that considers this. The sternum strap configuration and shoulder strap shape are the main factors affecting comfort over larger chests. Sternum straps that are easy to adjust and have some stretch in the straps, like those of the Salomon Adv Skin 12, will be more comfortable than a rigid or fixed-position strap, which may lead to increased pressure on sensitive areas.

While multiple packs have design elements to fit women’s bodies better, the most important factor to consider is what is most comfortable for you. A larger-sized unisex pack may be a better fit than one marketed as women’s specific, so some trial and error and a good return policy may be worth prioritizing. Brands seem to be turning away from changing the pocket configuration in women’s-specific vests, but the women’s versions of the Nathan Pinnacle 4 Liter Hydration Race Vest and CamelBak Zephyr Pro Vest both have shapes that are better suited women’s bodies.

We should note that in the initial round of testing for this guide, we did not have any larger-chested runners to provide detailed feedback about this. As we complete future testing, we’re incorporating a more diverse mix of body types, and specific pack recommendations for large-chested runners will be added to this guide in future updates.

iRunFar’s Alli Miles tests a smaller vest on a trail run. Photo: iRunFar/Eszter Horanyi

Which running vest is best for cold-weather running?

Hydration packs often provide the added benefit of keeping the core warm when running in cold weather. The downside is that they can cause your back and chest to get sweaty, which we recommend avoiding when running in cold weather.

Some packs, like the UltrAspire Alpha 6.0 Race Vest, have an insulated pocket for a bladder to protect the water from the cold. Also, if you’re running in sub-freezing temperatures, you’ll want to ensure the water in your bladder hose doesn’t freeze. To do this, when finished drinking, blow any water in the hose back into the bladder to keep it from freezing in place.

What’s the best way to attach trekking poles to a hydration vest?

Unless you’re doing a race or a run straight up a hill, you’ll probably want a way to stow your trekking poles when they are not in use. There are several different attachment systems for trekking poles on various packs, and it comes down to personal preference for which you prefer.

A pack like the UltrAspire Alpha 6.0 Race Vest has an elastic cord on the bottom that allows you to attach poles horizontally across your lower pack. Other packs can attach the poles vertically along the front of the pack, a design we don’t recommend due to the potential for injury if you fall.

The Salomon Adv Skin 12 has multiple pole attachment options, and many runners are choosing to attach a pole quiver to their pack to store their poles easily. The CamelBak Zephyr Pro Vest includes a quiver for carrying poles.

Call for Comments

• What is your favorite running vest?
• Which running vest feature is a must-have?

Testing running vests in California’s Santa Monica Mountains. Photo: iRunFar/Eszter Horanyi