BEST Running Packs and Hydration Vests 2023 | ft Osprey Salomon Harrier

[@runningchannel]

Do you like to run with a hydration pack?

[@kristinalannstrom820]

No, I haven't been able to find one that works for me. I've been using a belt with small bottles instead. The problem is that the packs have been uncomfortable because of my breasts. 😕 Now I want to try ultra so I would really need a good running pack.

[@CalmingAnxiety]

All the time. from 5k upwards. My Garmin Fenix reminds me every 10 mins to sip some fluids. Every 20 to take a bite (Nuts, cheese) . This way I train myself to stay hydrated and fed as I build towards those ultras

[@joneaton3366]

Running with nothing is best that's why I only run long run early mornings in summer uk

[@jencreamer3486]

Anything more than 5 miles and I do since my hands start cramping and I dislike running belts. I have a couple of different Salomon Skins (a 5 and a 12) that I love.

[@jrforbes24]

Do I like to run with one, not really, but I tolerate one because it just makes it easier to go further.

[@emilyweber8104]

I started training for a Half Marathon in October with a Nathan 1.5L hydration pack. It’s been a game changer.

[@mrunalpatil7867]

Link

[@botrytis_cinerea]

@@mrunalpatil7867 google?

[@jessmorgan2727]

I'm currently training for my first half marathon in Little Haven (not only that it's a coastal trail run, which is all very new to me)! I'm running it with my husband in memory of his aunty who loved Little Haven. We had lots of happy memories together there xx

[@SerenWen_art]

Little Haven is beautiful, hope you enjoy the race!

[@omfgitstony13]

I’m training for my first ever marathon! And I live in Florida. Yikes. My runs are getting longer and the sun is getting hotter, somehow. I am now in the market for a hydration vest and this video was spot on! Thank you team!

[@nidyakannan]

I'm starting my training for UTS 50 and comrades next year, keeping in mind of the ultimate goal, which is CCC😊 This video was so informative and too much fun! Thank you! I used the Kinder 10L in my 75K last week, it was brilliant! Shoutout to the running channel team for the brilliant videos! Thank you 😊

[@tatjanakueth5278]

I have the Salomon active skin and it really is a great hydration vest. Great help for my half marathons and weekend long runs. Looks like you got the veloforte bar on the table. You guys (Anna actually) inspired me to order with them and I am super happy with their quality, so thanks Anna and The Running Channel 😊

[@JoeyTreurniet]

Do you think the Salomon active skin is also suitable for a marathon? I'm actually in search of a vest for my first marathon in November. Thanks!

[@tatjanakueth5278]

@@JoeyTreurniet i think it depends on your hydration needs. The vest packs two 450ml soft flasks. But you could in theory put a bladder in the back pouch. Not sure how much would fit, I never used it.

[@faykellett9589]

Currently training for my first half marathon with the aim of running my first full next season (I already have my second half booked). Only started running this year but am loving it!

[@wrightyskyline]

That's my wife 😊😊😊

[@julieburton7393]

Nice review. Harrier are a great small company with a good product range at decent prices. I have the Big Half in September and the Manchester Marathon in April.

[@kathrynhilder9609]

Living in South Australia hydration is sooo important! I've got a hodge-podge of hydration "stuff"...handheld bottle, waist belt with 2 small bottles, waist belt with 4 small bottles, Nathan belt with 2 very large bottles, and a UD hydration vest which I adore. Loved this look at different vest options! Thanks guys. 😊

[@BrutalEntity]

I don't have the Harrier Cubar vest but I do have their 10L Kinder one. Loads of pockets etc and you can either use soft flasks or a bladder. Great kit for the price

[@carlybarrow9460]

Just entered my first marathon so that'll be a shock to the system! Loving the running channel content 😀

[@captainharrr]

I am training for my first half marathon ever! It is both frightening et exhilarating ;) Great video! I have just started to look at reviews of hydration vests. What a great timing!

[@Carlos.Otalvaro]

Currently training for my first marathon (NYC) really looking forward to it. Thanks for all the content!

[@wrightyskyline]

Myself and my wife are training for a half marathon. We only started this year and we are loving it 😊

[@Namoraslife]

I love hydration vests, especially on a long run. I can store all my stuff in my backpack and store my jacket in there when the weather is a little bit iffy. If I'm on a short run, I use a belt. But I also take my hydration vest on short hikes where I don't need a ton of stuff. It's so versatile and comfy to wear. I'm currently training for a half marathon, so no real vest needed for that race, but I'd love to do some trail runs in the future when I've built up enough stamina.

[@peterfalk7084]

I agree with belts for shorter runs, I do the same

Currently training for my second marathon in 42 years! I just had a long run slightly longer than a half-marathon, which was my longest this year. I'm taking it easy, hoping to be in marathon shape by next May.

[@rachaefox]

Currently training for my first half marathon but it's a trail run. Super exciting. I run with a Salomon sense pro 10 and absolutely love it. There's a mandatory kit list even for this 21km and it fits everything in perfectly

[@peterfalk7084]

Training for a coast2coast. I bought a Rat Race uktra pack which is ok for long runs. I love packs and need one that can facilitate poles more easily. My tip for hydration, ditch the 500ml carriers, stick a bladder in the back and and use the front pockets for food and navigation kit, its more accessible.

[@jamesboulton8299]

Great video. I'm currently training for the New Forest marathon in September. I love Harrier so will be taking my trusty Curbar 5L, still going strong after 2 years regular use. Though it is looking a bit faded now so might have to treat myself to a new 10L!!!

[@Nico-ss8pl]

I've been using the Ultraspire Zygos 4.0 and absolutely love it. Unlike most other hydration packs, this one is a vest. Fits very snug and has literally zero bounce. A ton of storage and pockets also. And the best part is that the bladder pocket is insulated so my water stays nice and cold!

[@leahselman4386]

Currently training for my first half marathon so I'm new to hydration vests. This video was a great guide!

[@charlottebedford8226]

I only started running in Jan this year as I got into the London marathon, and I’ve fallen in love with it. The marathon was unlike anything else I’ve ever experienced. I loved the route so much, in fact, that I’m now training for the Big Half (basically half the London marathon route) in September 😊

[@Squirrely_monster]

I’m training for my first marathon in the Cascade Mountains (outside of Seattle), which is in 8 weeks 😱 I use the Salomon Active Skin 8W like a couple of other folks on here. I love it. I am a heavy, salty sweater so I definitely had to buy the 1.5L bladder to take me to 2.5L. It fits my hydration, phone, keys, nutrition, extra clothes, and emergency supplies. With all the hydration and kit, my pack is pretty heavy in the beginning but so worth it. The bungee cord webbing on front of the pack is key to keeping the pack close to my body and adjusting the fit as hydration volume changes.

[@adventurecats4816]

I use a Salomon Agile 2 vest currently, it's very comfortable and good for runs/hikes of a few hours (had it out for 3 hours today). I am currently training for the Angry Owl Ultra, which is a timed event with 1 mile laps (I'm doing the 12 hour time limit). I'm planning for my first 50k trail event next year, so this episode gave me some good information on other hydration vests.

[@moggy992]

I started doing long runs and races last year and invested in a camelbak circuit 1.5 l vest. The front pocket access they have are fantastic. A bladder in the rear for water. You don't even know you're wearing it once you set off. I like the idea of the rab vein one if on very short runs. Im currently starting a training block for 2 upcoming half marathons . Thanks guys for the video.

[@elviratherunner]

Currently training for the New York City Marathon and bringing a hydration pack on the long runs is a life-saver in Texas heat!

[@rickys.9219]

I started training for my first Marathon. So excited! A Hydration vest is something I was exactly looking for :) Thank you for the amazing video!

[@GTE_Channel]

I'm in the same situation. I bought one and definitely wearing it during the marathon. No drink station stress and hydration on demand.

[@rickys.9219]

@@GTE_Channel Let's cross our fingers! :)

[@mattrushUK]

Already slowly building for “The Lap” around Windermere next May…. I’m definitely old enough that I should know better than trying to run an Ultra before I’m 50!!

[@thezurichrunner]

I am just coming out of Eiger E51 by UTMB, and am now training for Jungfrau Marathon in September. Hydration is key and so is finding a proper and well fitting running vest/hydration pack!

[@patrickmaxwell-mu6qj]

Currently training for the Thames Valley Cross Country Series after a long term achilles injury. Thanks for the reviews, they are so helpful.

[@samanthamcgown1784]

I am training for my first marathon and then I’m going to turn to trail running and run a 50km. I love watching all your trail running videos on the channel ❤

[@alasdairdalton9735]

I'm training for a road half later this year but also do a bit of trail. Well done for the shout out to the decathlon pack, I've used one for a few years and it's great. No frills but well designed and made. I've covered a lot of miles with it, in all sorts of conditions, and it's holding up fine.

[@SerenWen_art]

I’ve got a women’s specific Ultimate Direction pack, not only does it have a whistle, it has a spare hair bobble inside one of the pockets! I’m just getting back into running after a few years off (got diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis 5 years ago) so currently training for the Cheddar Gorge 10k road race, but aiming to get back to trail racing next year hopefully!

[@claricee3418]

I'm currently training for a half marathon and aiming for a full marathon next year! The tip about more layers instead of a thick one is certainly something that's going to be useful in the coming months!

[@derrickpershing1529]

The tip to stop the hydration pack slosh - gold. Thanks for the overview!

[@lottieb578]

I've been recovering from a torn ligament and tendon injury for the past year but have finally been able to work my way up to training regularly again. I've got my sights set on the HOWUM next year, a 30 mile ultra in Wales next year so wish me luck!

[@jayceemindeman270]

You guys are amazing. Your videos educate and keep me inspired in my early stage of my running journey. Could you guys do a video on what you would recommend during the seasons? Everything you need for running in winter, hot water, rainy weather etc?

[@suzanne1116]

Getting a running pack was the best decision I ever made. So convenient and a very comfortable way to carry what I need. I'm about to fast pack the TMB route and then continue to train for rim to rim to rim at the Grand Canyon.

[@hollyandersen9394]

I think the real test would be which person could find an item the fastest after that packing. Currently not training for any specific races but taking time to recover after my first 50k. At first I didn’t like running with a pack but now I like it. Finding a good fit is really important for actually wanting to use it and to feel successful on a run.

[@MrBoulderhead]

Currently training for a 100 mile in 24 hour attempt. Missed out twice in the past couple years, putting in some big Autumn and Winter miles ready to attack the race in the spring 2024. Packs are essential for me on long runs in training and obviously race days. Still using my trusty EVADICT and have done for 3 years now, love the front customisability and back pocket access

[@AdrianBrown-ux3fx]

Great content and beautifully timed for my research. Just started to look for a running vest for a 20k trail run in September with my daughter. It’ll be a celebration of my 67th birthday, my first trail run and my first non-training run with her.

[@GuySwain]

I am new to running. Just a few months in, but I am enjoying all that it brings. I like to carry my keys and my brick of a phone with me, particularly on my 10k weekend runs. My plan is to increase my distances, so I figured that getting used to wearing a vest before I needed to was a good plan. Better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.

[@teagalore]

This is a great video! I recently purchased the Kinder 10l vest as I'm planning for a 10km and hopefully more longer distances next year. Went out today for 1 hour 30 mins and ran 11km, it was great to have everything on me, including a waterproof jacket 😃 big fan, looking to get another soon 🏃‍♀️

[@runningchannel]

Running vests are brilliant if you aren't sure how long you're going to be out for! Are you training for anything at the moment? 😁

[@teagalore]

@@runningchannel training for a 10k race in October (first 10k) ☺️ and then hopefully increase distances from there!

[@LashanR]

I'm training for the Athens Marathon in November - the original marathon from Marathon to Athens, and it'll be my first marathon too! I can run a 20:38 5k and I'm pretty competitive so I'm training for a 3:30 time. The longest I've run is 12.12km so far and I've yet to buy a vest but it's on my radar as I build up the distance 🏃🏽‍♂

[@EliseTossou-bn6yj]

Training for the Big half in September and actually looking at buying a running pack so took loads of useful tips and advice from your video thanks a lot

[@fortniteytrn3754]

Training for the Yorkshire marathon (October). My first marathon since London 2016. Had a heart attack in 2019 so have been building up the distance gradually. I’ve done a few half’s now and feeling good. Did a 15 mile training run yesterday and decided that I need a pack for the rest of the long training runs.

[@aerobrain2001]

Sucking the air out also tends to make it easier to sip from I find. But yeah the reduced sloshing sound was a game changer!! 😊

[@issammawhoube]

Well, I'm training for the great north run. 2nd 1/2 marathon, with the 1st being 3months ago. Your videos helped a lot, thanks!

[@brent_f]

Training for a long trail run, and this overview of running packs is perfect timing. Thank you.

[@PhilouCon]

Great info. I’m training for a half marathon this year with an eye to a full next year and who knows beyond! Will definitely need to up my hydration game!

[@DrGruffLes]

Love my Evadict Pack - so versatile and very reasonable price considering the costs of other packs. I've taken to putting some reflective foam between my back and the hydration reservoir to keep my water cool and resist being heated up from my back - works really well! :D

[@AstrumG2V]

I didnt really realise Evadict existed until I went to Switzerland a few days ago, they're EVERYWHERE and the packs look so nice!!! 😍

[@juliangudsell7956]

Love my Osprey Dyna 15. Here in New Zealand our trail runs are often remote and high so the compulsory gear list can be extensive. The Dyna handles the lot so well

[@mikew6840]

I started trail running last year and want to start increasing my training and race distances, so for the latter, the mandatory checklist - and packing space - will come into play!!

[@AndAbr21]

I’m training for my first Ultra 50. Yes, I use a pack. Can’t be without it for kit and hydration requirements. But, newer versions are sooo expensive!

[@susanball2406]

I'm training for the Amsterdam Marathon in October. Lately I've been using a Lululemon Fast&free vest and I love it.

[@sorchacotter9431]

Training for Maverick South Downs 42k trail in September & then bit of speed work before London marathon training block. Love the videos & podcast guys thanks for all the content x

[@jaygoulden1]

Love my Ultraspire Zygos pack...really comfy, lots of pockets and storage, and by holding everything tight to the body, avoids all chafing too!

[@illustrationjester]

Thanks for the amazing overview. I have just finished my first half marathon and now looking towards my first marathon in 2024. I need to get testing some of these!

[@kevin_hultgren]

I’m training for my first 50k. As a bigger runner, most don’t fit too well. I’ve found that Nathan makes a great pack that is so comfortable and holds everything I need and then some.

[@julietwistguernsey]

Currently training for my first half marathon and bought a small Aonijie 5L which I love - so comfortable, with enough storage for what I need to carry. I just use the flasks rather than a bladder.

[@SeeEdRun]

Great video! Super timely too, as I'm training for my first marathon in October. I've been shopping around for various hydration packs, and have been very indecisive about it, which is not good as my 12+ mile training runs are now fast approaching!

[@andrewmcalister3462]

There are so many different brands and pack options out there. Thanks TRC for walking us through the options available. Although if you were going to do a packing speed challenge, you should have then required Sarah and James to run 10k with their gear (as packed) and produce one item on demand every 2.5K. 😈

[@arielmannes2544]

I started trail running and my running pack is a life saver :)

[@pauljaffray6437]

great video, Just half marathons this year. slowly building up for marathons, Triathlons, Ultras in 3 years when my kids are all independent. I find drinking really hard with running from my bottles without slowing down when doing 30kms. so i shall get a bladder and see how I get along with that.

[@johnrwilker]

I’m training for my second marathon. The first marathon, I did all my training on a treadmill so had everything I needed right there. Before the marathon, I was stuffing everything all over the place and didn’t have room for everything and dropped some stuff along the way. I totally misjudged my needs. This year, my long runs are getting longer and I’m doing some of them outside. I need a running vest so I’m not stuck running in circles. Thanks for the video! Just the review I was looking for.

[@harmonydoa7808]

I recently started training for my first marathon ever! Coming up next December. I also have a few races in the autumn to keep me motivated and see the improvements.

[@rjstewart]

I’m hearing impaired and my hearing aids are low power Bluetooth. If I run with my phone in a waist belt my music cuts in and out. I ended up switching to a vest primarily to place my phone up high towards my shoulder so I can enjoy music or audiobooks and hear prompts from my running app. Because of this, even on short runs I always wear my vest! I’d also add that my vest has a copy of my ID and a house key etc in the zipper pocket so it’s just always set up and ready to go!

[@Laisaaa]

Not actively training for anything right now but definitely realized when preparing for Eiger Ultra Trail E51 a couple of weeks ago that my current pack is a bit too small to pack all of the mandatory kit for a proper trail ultra 😅 Luckily we didn't need the bad weather kit since I didn't have enough time to test a new pack for long enough to feel confident in taking it. So now that I'm trying to start looking early at options for next year's ultra season this video is definitely gonna come in handy 😊

[@jasonbourne6383]

I am training for a half marathon - it’ll be my second! Loving the hydration vests!

[@neilroberts2448]

Training for Alton Towers ½ marathon in November, really looking forward to my first ½ marathon in over 20 years, wish me luck 😊

[@davidcole5304]

I’m training for my first half marathon! It’s a big step from 10k but loving the long runs.

[@BruceWayne-us3kw]

That's great! which one are you training for?

[@spaghettimonsterruns]

Hey me too man good luck!!

[@m1nature240]

I'm currently training for my first 10k which is happening at the end of September. Really looking forward to it. Thank you for the vid, it's really informative and I loved the packing race at the end 😊

[@melissahenault-rondeau9557]

I'm currently training for a half marathon in september. Love my Salomon Advance skin 8 vest for the sunday long run.

[@mattcummings2123]

I'm training for the Berlin Marathon in September, using the Salomon pulse belt on my shorter runs and a Salomon Hydra 4 on my longer runs 👍🏻

[@davidj7650]

Starting to train for Northern Traverse having finished Cape Wrath ultra this year. The Salomon packs with quiver for poles is hard to beat. Packs more than you’d think. Even if pack not specifically designed for a quiver you can still botch it with cable ties. Don’t forget to wash them in cold water !

[@sprighart1940]

I don’t have a hydration vest yet (torn between the Solomon Active Skin 4 and a Nathan) but I have a running/biking/hiking commute backpack that I use to get to and from work. Can’t wait to settle on a hydration vest for my first half and full marathon!

[@timlicence94]

great rundown of all the options! so many many choices! I've just started training for my first Half marathon and never used a running pack before as only just stared going beyond 10K.

[@TheFacelid]

I'm currently doing C25K. I'm on week 7. So nearly there! :D While I'm not at the stage where I need a hydration pack yet, I have started looking around. I already know I want to keep going further, so I will need one eventually. This will be a great recourse! Thanks! :)

[@tnan123]

Thanks! These are really helpful tips that help me see some of the things I need to consider as I've been looking for a running pack.

[@RachelClarice]

Perfect timing for this video! I’ve been struggling to decide what kind of hydration pack I want. I just started training for my first ultramarathon in early spring!

[@nigelgreen7585]

i love the flip belt, especially with a flip belt designed bottle that curves around the body shape. This gives you everything you need for that slightly longer distance that doesn't require a full pack.

[@thomasleahy3767]

I am training for a marathon. Ultraspire fluidic has been a huge help. I used to use a belt and make a couple laps. I would stop at my car to refill. Now i can stretch my legs a little further from home.

[@JennieMoors-sf8kw]

Thanks for the info. As a very slooooow runner (still learning) it takes me a long time to get anywhere! I've been looking into getting a vest. Can you get them with an outboard motor attached 😆

[@Quintinia]

I'm training for my first half marathon in October! I've only done one road race before (a 10k) but my best tip is that bringing your own fluids means you can skip the often chaotic water stations and shave a bit of time off your race.

[@paulross2462]

I’m training for my first ultramarathon, the 100k Lake District Ultra Challenge and will be raising money for GOSH. I’ve wanted to do an ultra for a few years and this is the perfect way to start.

[@hopetornowske7306]

After watching James conquer Camrades, I was inspired to sign up for a 20 miler to try to do my “hard things” and use it to work towards Berlin marathon which is my bucket list race. I also have a variety of packs/belts/vest depending on what distance I am doing.

[@korufantasy6892]

Love this! Decathlon vests are love

[@mmoesby]

Coming on to 58 years old, I´m training for My first ever Ultra - havent decided the race yet, but I´m definetely doing one. I started running 4 years ago, after not being running for almost 30 years and are really keen on longer runs - ultras...

[@syncmaster173]

I’m training for the 60km Calgary marathon ultra next year, did the 50km this year and had a blast!

[@Hanskazan102]

I’m currently training for the Amsterdam Marathon mid-October! Hoping to run it in sub 4:30 🤞🏼

[@melanie9025]

Did two Half Marathon des Sables with two Raidlight Running backpacks. The first one was really lightweight but not comfy at full weight (10kg) but the second one was a game changer. Very comfy and lots of handy pockets (activ legend 24l). Yes, I also recommend to do a couple of test runs with full load before a (stage) race. I am currently training for a marathon end of October.

[@sheldonjanuary4058]

Very helpful video! Right now I'm training for the SaltPans Ultra Marathon in Botswana. It's the hardest flat race you can find!

[@dresden_slowjog]

Training for sub-45 10k on 22 Oct 2023. Currently carefully ramping up my long easy runs by a km per week. At 16k now I'm in urgent need of a running vest. Your video came godsent!

[@mikeclark93]

Perfect timing as i'm just at the point of choosing a vest. Thank you.

[@marcdiduca]

Currently training for autumn half marathons in the Czech Republic and a UTMB index race in Wales in November.

[@SamantaBelotti]

I'm training for my first marathon in December and hydration pack is an essential for those very long runs.

[@robhughes645]

Thanks for this, these packs are something I've been looking into for longer runs. I tried a few different belts and settled on the Decathlon belt (£19.99) and it's been better than any of the more expensive options so seeing that they have a vest option is great.

[@Ouga_Official]

I am currently training for a half marathon in September and am using a tiny salomon vest (which my friend is currently borrowing). I would like to start commuting back from work with an easy run a couple times per week. Wouldn’t need my laptop nor hydration but still some space for clothes

[@lukehutchinson6754]

I'm in very early training and planning for the delirious West 100. Definitely a bucket list race with phenomenal views. Cheers 🍺

[@iggalan]

It's quite hot over here in Barcelona so even for a short run I'm going to carry water. Running packs are a must, small for shorter runs, larger one for longer runs. Currently training for Sgrail 100, which is a gravel triathlon 100 Km in total.