Salomon Active Skin 4 Running Hydration Vest Unisex, Ideal for Trail Running, Trekking and Hiking, Compatible with Hydration Bladder 1.5L

Product Information

Thinner fabrics are more likely to rip, stretch out of shape, or form holes with use, and they don’t carry a load as well as more robust materials. If you’re headed out for a full day, you might consider carrying an ultralight water filter or purifier so that you don’t have to shuttle more water than necessary—our favorite for running is the Katadyn BeFree. Most side pockets are stretchy dump pockets, and many of these pockets also reach through to the rear compartment, allowing you to grab a layer without taking off your vest.

Best Running Hydration Vests and Packs of 2023 | Switchback Best Running Hydration Vests and Packs of 2023 | Switchback

Whether you’re training for an ultra-marathon, embarking on a leisurely trail run, or tackling a ridge scramble in the alpine, a running vest is the perfect tool for hauling your essentials. Additionally, the unique top-loading compartment is a breeze to load and unload, and the back dump pocket can accommodate an extra layer. is Ultimate Direction’s largest-capacity running vest, with a whopping 17 liters of space to fit everything you need for big (and possibly overnight) adventures.In terms of organization, the front storage is on par with the ADV Skin’s (including a zipper pocket on the left chest), and the rear compartment can be accessed via the top or side.

ACTIVE SKIN 4 Unisex Running Vest with flasks included - SALOMON

Further, the hydration systems are excellent: The 12L version uses an insulated HydraPak bladder, while the 4L features soft flasks with a proprietary ExoSpine, making them easier to stuff into the chest pockets after an aid-station pit stop. Like the vests above, the Fastpack prioritizes accessibility and a close fit but tacks on a larger capacity and a host of organizational features, including external side pockets, a full side zip, and a roll-top closure. Its most notable feature is its contoured fit, which traces the curves of the torso better than most of the competition. If you’re really moving quickly, the ADV Skin’s plethora of front and rear pockets does cause a little bounce, but we’ve only noticed it while doing speedwork during long runs (otherwise, it’s more svelte-feeling than most). This additional water capacity will be helpful on a long, all-day trail adventure, where you won’t have access to a water source.The padding ensures minimal rubbing with this vest, even on those longer runs or during ultra events. Available in 4L and 8L options, the Active Skin packs offer secure and comfortable storage of your gear during long trail runs. In the end, whether or not a vest has side pockets will not make or break our decision, but the added organization and weight distribution certainly come in handy. The Salomon Active Skin 8 vest construction uses stretchable, breathable fabrics that move and wrap around the shape of your body.

ACTIVE SKIN 8 Unisex Running Vest with flasks included - SALOMON ACTIVE SKIN 8 Unisex Running Vest with flasks included - SALOMON

Therefore, it follows that hydration vests for running come in a wide variety of styles with various intended uses, from minimalist race models and capable all-day designs to 20-liter haulers built to shuttle a light overnight kit. The snug Sensifit vest design, soft fabrics and inner mesh maximize comfort, while the new adjustment system holds the vest where you want it. They can be difficult to access from the top when your bottles are full, but you can also reach them from the side through an alternate opening.In the end, we don’t recommend the Circuit for experienced runners, but if you’re not pushing your speed or haven’t yet been spoiled by a more precise fit, it’s perfectly serviceable and a superb value. But whether you’re competing in a supported race or headed for a day in the hills, a performance vest will be your best bet for the rigors of long-distance trail running. Perhaps you’re running an ultramarathon with a biblical mandatory gear list, or need enough space to pack the ten essentials for all-day unsupported jaunts. Some, like the Salmon ADV Skin 8 Set, even place the water bottles below—rather than on top of—the chest, using straws to extend the water bottles to the mouth (it's worth noting that not everyone will love this design).

Salomon Active Skin 8 Set Unisex Hydration Vest 8L Salomon Active Skin 8 Set Unisex Hydration Vest 8L

First off, unlike the ADV Skin, the Norvan is not compatible with a reservoir, although we did manage to stuff a third soft flask in the lumbar compartment for a run in a particularly dry area. With minimal suspension, the Fastpack 20 is not built to handle loads like a standard daypack, nor does it come with a hipbelt (the 30 and 40L versions do). Patagonia can’t match the extensive running vest collections from brands like Ultimate Direction or Nathan, but their Slope Runner Endurance Vest holds its own. Running vests aren’t just for folks who compete in ultramarathon races or embark on long sojourns into the mountains.

Security is also important to consider: During more scramble-y runs, we appreciate having zippered or cinch closures on the front of our vest to help keep our belongings secure when we’re bending over. uses mesh on the shoulder straps and interior of the back, making it a great choice for warm-weather runs. Like many running vests here, you get a garment-like design, two flask pockets (two HydraPak soft flasks are included), and an assortment of zip and stash compartments. And while the UD is over 3 ounces lighter than the Black Diamond Distance 15 above, its spread-out storage is limiting for bulky items like a rope or helmet. Finally, most runners carry two bottles (one on each shoulder strap), which allows them to drink two different liquids—often water and an electrolyte fluid—and balance the weight.