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Trey gravitates toward accessible outdoor activities like hiking, running, and cycling, with an interest in human-powered, carless travel with the occasional assistance of public transportation or a friendly hitch. If you’re in the mountains, are there any opportunities to fill up water from natural sources? Just make sure to bring a water filter or some way to treat water if so. Sizing It’s important that whatever vest you go with fits well and doesn’t bounce up and down while you run; (photo/Ilana Newman) A comfortable reliable hydration vest is key for staying fueled and motivated on a long run or race; (photo/Conor Hayden) Why You Should Trust Us Depending on the capacity of your hydration vest and how much water you need to take, you could even take a hydration bladder as well as a bottle or two.
Flasks can also have a lighter weight than reservoirs. However, some tend to fall down or are hard to reach without a lot of work while on the move. Look for elastics to hold flasks in position even when they’re partially empty. We do wish that the light thread also illuminated a bit on the front of the vest, as it is also important to be noticed by oncoming traffic — but bright reflective strips on the shoulder straps provide adequate visibility. Recently, the most popular design for running vests focuses on designs where the water is stored in two soft, collapsible flasks (and, less common, even a hard-sided bottle). Storage capacityMany runners prefer one hydration method or the other, while others use both. However you choose to hydrate, you just need to make sure to bring enough water for your run. Capacity: Water & Gear The duration and intensity of your run will help determine how much water and storage capacity you need; (photo/Ilana Newman) What we didn’t like: Bottles supplied get complaints about rib discomfort. Price high for problematic bottles.
Getting the right fit is key for any piece of gear, but especially for a running vest. When possible, head to your local running store and ask for a fitting. For online shopping, take the time to measure yourself and refer to sizing charts.
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The verdict: The overall best running vest for trail running distances from 10km to 50 mile ultras. Finance is subject to application, financial circumstances and borrowing history. Performance Cycling Limited FRN: 720557 trading as Tredz are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. We are a credit broker not a lender – credit is subject to status and affordability and is provided by Mitsubishi HC Capital UK PLC. Terms & Conditions Apply. Running vests are designed to carry a range of items comfortably, but they aren’t limited to running. Some are designed for running a few miles from home on city streets, and others are built for all-day outings in the mountains.