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Hydration vests are useful whether you’re a newbie runner who logs a few miles before breakfast or a long-distance runner. These packs not only hold your water, but they also contain compartments for things like lip balm, vehicle keys, trail munchies, and additional layers. What features should you consider before choosing a hydration vest? We came here to test and rank the best running hydration vests on the market right now. We have enlisted the best hydration vest for you. Select the best hydration vests for running by determining which elements are most important for your running style. Add-ons like an emergency whistle for safety are fantastic to take on every run for regular runners who aren’t attempting to achieve a personal record. Trekking pole keepers are an additional element to consider if you’re an ultra runner who enjoys full or multiday trips, including ridgeline running. Trekking poles are frequently utilized up hills on steep trails; thus, having a stash spot is essential when storing them.
- 1: Nathan Women’s Hydration Pack/Running Vest – VaporAiress with 2L Water Bladder…
- 2: Osprey Dyna 1.5 Women's Running Hydration Vest, Reef Teal, X-Small/Small
- 3: CamelBak Women's Chase Bike Vest 50oz – Hydration Vest – Easy Access Pockets
- 4: Nathan Pinnacle 4L Hydration Pack/Running Vest – 4L Capacity with Twin 20 oz Soft Flasks Bottles…
- 5: TETON Sports TrailRunner 2 Hydration Pack; 2-Liter Hydration Backpack with Water Bladder…
- 6: Salomon Women's Advance Skin 8 Set Running Hydration Vest
- 7: USWE Pace – Running Vest Hydration Pack with 2 x 500ml UltraFlask, Backpack for Men and Women
- 8: Hydrapak Velocity IT Insulated Water Bladder/Reservoir for Running Hydration Vests…
- 9: High Sierra HydraHike Hydration Backpack, Lightweight Running Backpack…
- 10: Ultimate Direction Race Vesta 5 – Women's, Cloud, Medium/Large, 80459820CL-M/L
- 11: Under Armour Infinite 8L Race Vest Black Reflective
- 12: USWE Outlander 3L, Hydration Pack with 1,5L/ 50 oz Hydration Bladder, Black. Bounce Free
- 13: Ultraspire Spry 2.5 Hydration Pack | Minimalist Vest | Up to 1L Fluid Capacity
- 14: Nike Trail Kiger Vest, Medium, (Black/Total Crimson)
- 15: Northwest Survival Hydration Pack – 2 Liter Water Bladder with Extra Large Storage Compartment, Pink
1: Nathan Women’s Hydration Pack/Running Vest – VaporAiress with 2L Water Bladder…
Features
- FUNCTIONAL – Equipped with a 2L bladder – quick-release valve system, Water-resistant pill pocket, and Two easy-access front bottle pockets (bottles not included)
- DESIGN – Lightweight and comfortable – no bounce, breathable materials, and form-fitting – equipped with Soft-touch, no-chafe elastic perimeter binding
- FIT – Vest fit is snug and overall sizing tends to run slightly on the smaller side, so it is recommended that anyone on the higher end of a given size may want to size up!
- UNIQUE FEATURES – Reflective hits for runs in dusk/dawn, Side Stretch mesh pockets fit most smartphones, Rear external shock cord for increased capacity, and tracking pole compatibility
- SPACIOUS – Storage Capacity: 427 cu in/7 Liters without bladder; 305 cu in/5 Liters with bladder
- IDEAL – Perfect for Marathons, Trail Running, Hiking, Cycling, Climbing, Outdoor enthusiasts, and Hydration-on-the-go!
- SIZING-The sizing is based on a chest circumference measurement taken around the sternum and will be as follows: XXS 25-30in (63-77cm), XS 28-33 (71- 84cm), S/M 31-36 (79-91cm), L/XL 34-40 (86-102cm)
Product Description
The lightest-weight Women’s race vest option in the red-hot Vapor Series lineup brings the ideal balance of storage capacity, functionality, and weight to even the most demanding endurance athletes work with. Trust us, ladies tell it like it is
2: Osprey Dyna 1.5 Women’s Running Hydration Vest, Reef Teal, X-Small/Small
Features
- Imported
- Zippered reservoir sleeve with included Hydraulics LT 1.5 liter reservoir by Hydrapak with QuickConnect and sternum magnet included
- Vertical zippered harness slash pocket with whistle zipper pull and trekking pole attachment
- Dual lower stretch mesh food supplement harness pockets
- Dual extra-large stretch mesh soft flask food harness pockets
- Accessible dual lower side panel zippered stretch mesh pocket.Breathable mesh wrap with the soft-irritation contact surface
Product Description
Training, racing, and more. The Dyna 1.5 is a svelte hydration companion perfect for training runs, long races, or streamlined days in the mountains. While it may be the smallest volume of the series, it will carry you further than you ever imagined. With a body-hugging women’s-specific fit that provides bounce-free carry, a smart and accessible organization for fuel and gear, and an included Hydraulics LT 1.5L Reservoir that can be supplemented with soft flasks, the Dyna 1.5 helps you focus on what matters most: continuous forward motion.
- Included Osprey Hydraulics 1.5 LT reservoir with QuickConnect and sternum strap magnet for the bite valve
- Front panel zippered internal reservoir sleeve
- Front panel zippered slash pocket
- Snap-in adjustable/removable dual chest straps for customized stability
- Vertical zippered harness slash pocket for valuables or phone
- Tuckaway safety whistle
- Trekking pole attachment
- Women’s-specific sizing and fit
3: CamelBak Women’s Chase Bike Vest 50oz – Hydration Vest – Easy Access Pockets
Features
- 3D Vent Mesh Harness: Lightweight and breathable with added cargo. Designed for all-day comfort.
- Integrated Tool Organization: Keep your CO2 cartridges, patch kits, and more right where you can find them.
- Easy Access Harness Pockets: Quickly grab your phone and essentials
- Sits Above Jersey Pockets: For all-day rides where every bit of storage is needed
- Secure Zippered Pocket: Perfect for bike tools or other essentials
4: Nathan Pinnacle 4L Hydration Pack/Running Vest – 4L Capacity with Twin 20 oz Soft Flasks Bottles…
Features
- FUNCTIONAL – Pinnacle 4L is equipped with two 20oz soft flasks with extended tubes to easily sip fluids without removing flasks from the front pockets – Compatible with a 1.5 L Bladder (Not Included). No-Bouncing when running!
- DESIGN – Lightweight and comfortable. Apparel-like fit with lightweight, breathable tapered back panels to keep the moisture out. No-chafe elastic perimeter binding. 20% lighter than VaporKrar and VaporHowe.
- FIT – Vest fit is snug. Tapered back panels for a chimney wicking effect, designed to wick moisture up and out of sweaty locations. Longer back design for dispersed weight balance. 360 Degree Reflective hits for runs in dusk/dawn.
- UNIQUE FEATURES – 2 water-resistant chest pockets for smartphones, keys, or nutrition. Pockets allow for easy access to larger items like extra layers. Shoulder pill pocket and safety whistle. New Kangaroo pockets allow one side entry access point and a vertical pocket for larger items like trekking poles.
- IDEAL – Perfect for marathons, trail running, hiking, cycling, climbing, outdoor enthusiasts, and hydration on the go! Light is fast, fast is beautiful. This 4L pack has room for a little extra gear and plenty of hydration. 244 cu in / 4 Liters. Weight: 0.31lbs / 140 gr
Product Description
PERFECT FIT
Designed to keep you moving in total comfort, this vest is lightweight, breathable, and features tapered back panels to keep the moisture out. Its new enhanced shape boasts a slightly longer back for efficient, dispersed capacity. With just the right chafe-free fit and form, it’s the perfect race day vest!
SMART STORAGE
Thoughtful storage is always in reach including two new Kangaroo pockets allowing one side entry access point and a vertical pocket for larger items like trekking poles. Two water-resistant pockets are included on the chest for the phone and a pill pocket complete with a whistle. A large diagonal zipper and side pockets allow for easy access to larger items like extra layers and smaller things like keys and nutrition.
5: TETON Sports TrailRunner 2 Hydration Pack; 2-Liter Hydration Backpack with Water Bladder…
Features
- RUGGED AND REFLECTIVE: Built with TETON innovation, this awesome pack is built with durable ripstop construction and an updated reflective print.
- IT’S AMBIDEXTROUS: No more being forced to reach across to your other shoulder because the Trailrunner 2.0 features hydration ports on both the left and right.
- PERFECT POCKET: The updated exterior micro-mesh front pocket is just right for your take-along snacks, keys, or other important items.
- DRINK UP: You’ll get hungry before you get thirsty thanks to the hydration pack’s included 2L bladder.
Product Description
However, it does supply you with water (which you need to survive), and it’s so surprisingly light that you’ll probably be able to outrun several smaller wilderness animals on your way to safety. The Trailrunner 2.0 is super comfortable and ready for your adventures. And for the style enthusiasts, this pack now sports six fun colors.
6: Salomon Women’s Advance Skin 8 Set Running Hydration Vest
Features
- Imported
- Nylon lining
- Zipper closure
- Inspired by top trail runners, this spacious hydration vest is great for starting out and gives you the confidence to take on longer trails. Prioritizing comfort, the ACTIVE SKIN 8 for women is soft, snug, and adapted to your morphology – lower pockets for the flasks and a straw for effortless drinking. Let’s not forget the modular storage spaces.
- Go the Distance: Whether you love daily road running in your neighborhood, an escape to a local trail, or something more rugged, Salomon makes hydration gear and accessories to help you rack up miles in comfort
- Time to Play: Whether you are into trail running, hiking, backpacking, skiing, or mountaineering, Salomon has shoes and gear for men and women to help you conquer a new distance, personal record, or event
- Since 1947 Salomon has created innovative outdoor sports gear. From running and hiking to backpacking, skiing and more, shoes, boots, bags, apparel and accessories help make any path your own
Product Description
Inspired by top trail runners, this spacious hydration vest is great for starting out and gives you the confidence to take on longer trails. Prioritizing comfort, the ACTIVE SKIN 8 for women is soft, snug, and adapted to your morphology – lower pockets for the flasks and a straw for effortless drinking. Let’s not forget the modular storage spaces.
7: USWE Pace – Running Vest Hydration Pack with 2 x 500ml UltraFlask, Backpack for Men and Women
Features
- A high-end lightweight running vest, with a completely new ergonomic design and size range. It has an outstanding personal individual fit, with a Bounce Free patented No Dancing Monkey Vest harness system. The elastic side panels expand along with the chest during physical exertion, allowing a constant tight and compliant anti-bounce fit.
- The two included 500ml Ultraflasks are placed in a 45 degrees angle front pockets for outstanding comfort. The hydration vest features are intended for on-the-go access, including a front pole attachment, 2x quick stash front pockets, 2x energy/food shoulder pockets, and 2x zippered stash back pockets.
- With the Pace series, USWE is taking the lead on the Stays Fresh movement for running vests, by including the award-winning Polygiene Stays Fresh treatment. This unique technology keeps the vest fresh and permanently odor-free. ItÕs durable and gives the vest a longer lifespan, which is reducing the environmental footprint.
- SIZE GUIDE: Measure your chest size just below your armpits: S-M: 31.5-36 inches (80-92 cm). M-L: 34-38.5 inches (86-98 cm). L-XL: 36-41 inches (92-104 cm). The vest has a high-ventilated mesh back panel and reflective points for night visibility.
- The Pace Running Hydration Vest 2L (White Black in size L-XL) is designed for Running and Trail Running for both beginner and pro levels. For Men, Women, and Adults. The Pace series comes in the following styles, where the liters show the total storage space: 2L and 8L. carry different colors in the sizes from Small-Medium, Medium-Large to Large-Xtra Large.
8: Hydrapak Velocity IT Insulated Water Bladder/Reservoir for Running Hydration Vests…
Features
- BEST RUNNING VEST REPLACEMENT: A perfect fit for most standard hydration vests with an ergonomic Slider Top to reduce chafing.
- INSULATED – IsoBound Insulation keeps water cold and won’t sweat in warm temperatures.
- SLIM PROFILE: Designed to eliminate sloshing and be more comfortable in the vests.
- NEW HIGHER-FLOW: Engineered with high-performance features including the Blaster Bite Valve with a twist on/off valve.
- 100% BPA FREE & EASY TO CLEAN: Made from the highest quality materials, fully reversible, and dishwasher safe.
Product Description
The Velocity IT 1. 5L features new IsoBound insulation technology that keeps water cold and won’t sweat in warm temperatures. Engineered to keep fluids at an ideal temperature 38% longer than a standard reservoir. After all, cold water is more refreshing.
9: High Sierra HydraHike Hydration Backpack, Lightweight Running Backpack…
Features
- Large main compartment with a hydration reservoir
- COMFORTABLE, ERGONOMIC DESIGN. High Sierra features a comfortable, ergonomic design with this awesome adult hydration backpack; the padded back panel and shoulder straps with air mesh material help keep shoulders comfortable and your back cool and dry
- LIGHTWEIGHT AND STABLE: HydraHike running hydration backpack has an adjustable sternum strap and webbing hip belt to help secure the bag on your back; adjust these straps to fit your size; light enough to use as a kids’ hydration pack
- SAFE TO USE FOR NIGHT CAMPING: this hydration pack features reflective details on the front and back which help keep you safe while out in the dark; HydraHike is the perfect camping hydration backpack
- MADE TO LAST: this outdoor hydration pack is coated with 600D poly with a nylon ripstop making it strong and durable; enjoy many exciting hiking trips with this water hydration backpack
- BPA-Free Hydration Reservoir included.
Product Description
- Large main compartment with 2.0L hydration reservoir
- Organize compartment with divider pockets and key clip
- Reflective details on the front and back of the bag for safety
- Adjustable sternum strap and hip belt webbing
- Light blinker loop
- Air mesh back panel and should straps
10: Ultimate Direction Race Vesta 5 – Women’s, Cloud, Medium/Large, 80459820CL-M/L
Features
- Material: 20D coated nylon, Flex mono mesh, MicroMono mesh, stretch nylon ripstop
- Volume: 8.1L (494cu in)
- Shoulder Straps: shaped
- Hydration Compatible: 2 bottle pockets, 2L reservoir
- Reservoir Included: 2 500ml Body Bottle II
Product Description
When it’s time to head to the starting line and get in the zone, you want to be as light and fast as you can be. This race-specific hydration pack sheds weight and boosts the breathability to cut down on discomfort and distractions when you’re focusing up and pushing yourself to the max. But don’t worry, it’s still got enough storage for nutrition, hydration, and extra layers and gear.
11: Under Armour Infinite 8L Race Vest Black Reflective
Features
- 100% blend
- Imported
- MADE FOR RUNNERS– Equipped with two 20oz Flasks with extended tubes so you can easily drink on the go w/out removing flasks from the front pockets, built for long runs and hiking, balances your water, and holds all your essentials w/out weighing you down
- STORAGE – Large main back storage zippered compartment with 8L capacity, hydration Bladder compatible, front storage pockets for phone, keys, and other valuables
- BOUNCE FREE – Lightweight & sweat-wicking material with ergo-shaped design for a bounce-free run, as your body emits energy, the mineral-infused fabric absorbs & reflects it back, improving endurance
- DESIGN – One size fits most, with adjustable sternum and side straps for a perfect customized fit, reflective details for added visibility, BPA Free
- MEN or WOMEN – Versatility is key, designed and built for everyone, soft perimeter binding prevents chafing, for running, hiking, walking, riding, camping, etc
12: USWE Outlander 3L, Hydration Pack with 1,5L/ 50 oz Hydration Bladder, Black. Bounce Free
Features
- A lightweight 3L race hydration backpack with a super-smart external on/off organizer multi-pocket for tools and gear (1.0 liter). Keeps your tools and gear in a secure position.
- Includes a 1.5 liter / 50 oz Hydrapak Elite hydration bladder, a Slide-Seal top, and can be fully reversible for easier handling.
- For MTB, Mountain Biking, Cycling, and Off-Road Motorsports.
Product Description
USWE Outlander Hydration Backpack 3 L Polyester Black
13: Ultraspire Spry 2.5 Hydration Pack | Minimalist Vest | Up to 1L Fluid Capacity
Features
- – Quiet, bounce-free, lightweight, soft, and non-abrasive against skin and clothing; its breathable but strong, large-holed mesh pulls moisture away from the body to keep skin dry and cool
- FLUID CAPACITY – Compatible with 2 UltraFlask 550 mL bottles (not included) and a 1 L reservoir (not included)
- MAX 02 STERNUM – For unrestricted breathing while maintaining a stable pack. Uses a shock cord with good stretch for unrestricted breathing but also good rebound on the stretch for a stable ride
- CARRY EVERYTHING YOU NEED – Rapid access pocket and let the consumer decide what goes in, such as gels, foods, pills, electrolytes, keys, a cell phone or any other small personal device, a credit card or money, and even light clothing
- RECOMMENDED USE – Flexible for light and fast ultra races with frequent refueling stops; ideal for runners who prefer to carry their own supplies during a marathon or a half marathon
Product Description
The Spry 2.5 Hydration Pack is a minimalist vest that can be used for everything from a 10k to a 100 miler. The Spry 2.5 is equipped with Max 02 Sternum, trash pockets, a shock cord for greater versatility, and a larger quick stash in the back for more carrying capacity, 1Lt bladder compatible. One size fits most. Ultrarunning Magazine’s top pick.
14: Nike Trail Kiger Vest, Medium, (Black/Total Crimson)
Features
- The large main compartment fits the hydration bladder (sold separately) or can be used for additional storage
- Mesh shoulder straps and back panel for breathability and comfort.
- Multiple stretch mesh pockets for easy access storage Zippered dry zone compartment for secure storage
- Dual, adjustable sternum straps for a customized, stable fit
- Reflective detailing for enhanced visibility in low light conditions. Capacity 3.5L. Weight 9.5oz
Product Description
Contents: Body: 86% Nylon, 14% Polyester / Lining: 50% Nylon, 50% Polyester. The large main compartment fits the hydration bladder (sold separately) or can be used for additional storage Mesh shoulder straps and back panel for breathability and comfort. Multiple stretch mesh pockets for easy access storage Zippered dry zone compartment for secure storage Dual, adjustable sternum straps for a customized, stable fit.Reflective detailing for enhanced visibility in low light conditions Capacity 3.5L. Weight 9.5oz
15: Northwest Survival Hydration Pack – 2 Liter Water Bladder with Extra Large Storage Compartment, Pink
Features
- Extra-large 2-liter bladder. BPA free. Large screw cap for easy water access
- Convenient large pocket with a zipper to hold any extra tools, food, or gear
- Adjustable straps to fit most body types. Breathable open straps for constant airflow to reduce sweating
- Durable nylon material to handle any hiking, biking, or running Adventure
- A hydration pack is water-resistant to keep your belongings dry in any conditions
Product Description
The Northwest Survival hydration backpack is the ultimate tool for any outdoor adventure. Each pack comes with an extra-large 2-liter water bladder With an easy-open cap. Each bladder has a long water hose with a shut-off valve on the end. Each backpack is designed with adjustable straps and ventilated shoulder straps to reduce sweating. hydration pack has a big storage pocket to hold any items from food, extra water, keys, headphones, tools, and much more. The Northwest Survival backpack is lightweight and perfect for hiking, biking, camping, or a walk in the park!
Conclusion
Running vests are useful because they keep your core warm, reducing the need for your body to borrow blood from other locations. Some running vests have pockets for storing water and other items, and they may be reflective to keep you safe during low-light runs. We chose the best running vests based on their comfort, level of weather protection, warmth and breathability, and sweat-wicking ability to keep you dry during your runs. Our professional running coach and product tester put the best vests on our list to the test by running with them in a variety of settings. A good running vest should be snug but not too tight. You should also make sure the vest does not rub or move around too much, as this might cause chafing. Look for vests with an elastic or drawstring at the bottom to ensure a secure fit while keeping the cold and wind out.