Montane Gecko VP 20+ Review: A brilliantly versatile multi-day, ultra, commuter running pack

Welcome to The Run Testers. In this video we’re talking about the Montane Gecko VP 20+, a 20-litre trail and ultra friendly running pack that's built for multi-day ultra but can double as a running pack for commuter running and long days on the trials. We've given it the full Run Tester treatment and you can find out what we made of it in our Montane Gecko VP 20+ Review. Hit play.
JUMP STRAIGHT IN:
0:00 - Intro
0:24 - Design Details, weight, price
1:29 - The Run Test
11:00 - Verdict

[@jonomichi2262]

Cool review

[@amandaarmstrong5871]

Have just found your channel. Excellent reviews. Can you suggest a pack for a woman who wants to fastpack unsupported for a few days? So needs to carry tent/food/clothes etc but also wants to run. I'm quite small and I'm finding Montane Trailblazer 30 and the Ultimate Direction Fastpack 30 too long in the back for me at 5'4". Any suggestions? Many thanks

[@m3phist0]

I regularly use the Montane Trailblazer 30 and the Montane Gecko belt for the run commuting or just the Gecko belt for when running light. The trailblazer is highly durable and fits fantastically but is heavy (and moreso when loaded with 30 litres!) and does get water heavy. It doubles as a hiking bag or just a general backpack. It's multi-purpose which is great but feels more like a fast packing bag first and running vest second while this Gecko VP is first and foremost made for running. I actually considered buying the Gecko VP+ / 5 lites but already own a similar Salomon vest. I have to say that the velcro on my Gecko running belt (over a year old now and used it on atleast 3 runs a week) has held up really well. The velcro is not wearing down and the materials are holding up well. The reason I use this over my other running belts is because of the velcro fastening means I can tailor the fit for each run depending on what I'm wearing or how much pizza I've eaten the night before :D looking forward to more Montane reviews.

[@richardjohnson7624]

Great detailed response Mohammed. I will take any advice on this topic as I have been using a totally unsuitable pack and the Laptop jostles around, the shoulder straps dig in and there is no waist support or strap, so I am now struggling to run properly and fear an injury is imminent. Any other views from the forum for something at around £60 gbp max would be greafully received. Or if I just will not find anything as good as this Gecko for the money. Richard

[@m3phist0]

@@richardjohnson7624 hi Richard, when buying a commuter backpack ensure it has loops on the front that will allow you to attach your own bungee cord. I've retro-fitted mine with a bungee and clips so when I'm running I always tighten down the contents of the bag right down using this bungee system so nothing at all can jostle around. It really is the most frustrating thing when you're running, hearing/feeling things bounce around in your pack. The Trailblazer series allows for this as do many other packs so be mindful when purchasing. It really makes a huge difference in my opinion. If you want some more advice on how to do this or see some pictures on how I've done it to my packs then shout and I'll gladly share. All the best. Mohamed.

[@richardjohnson7624]

Brilliant Mohammed, will look into this for sure. Great detail. I basically need a running backpack that's about 20L Max to carry my laptop when running to/from the office. I am trialling one at the moment and I'm having some issues but agree that cinching it right down does help. I'm still looking therefore

[@midwaybrumenbridge]

So was thinking to buy montane for the Gobi march after using UD 40l for MDS and OMM 25l for Atacama. But I can not see that on a 250km multistage one

[@andreabgo4298]

Hei, good review. Do you think 12L version is better then 20L for just a day trip/running ?

[@MrGinger2612]

Currently looking for something for commuting and future ultras. Commute involves a tablet/small laptop, food and some trousers, any particular suggestions from anyone? Does this have a compartment in the back I could put the laptop and stop it bouncing around? Thanks.

[@stephenfuller1066]

Hi, what fit size did you go for as you never covered the fit. Thanks in advance

[@richardjohnson7624]

I'm looking for something half that price that I can use to run to office that will safely carry my laptop whilst I run. Don't need a huge bag or bladder.

[@TheRunTesters]

Evadict Mixed Trail Ultra Bag 15L might be worth a look for £50.

[@richardjohnson7624]

@@TheRunTesters Ahh right RunTesters to the rescue, I apologies, just seen this response, that seems like just the ticket. Great reviews btw, keep it up. Richard

[@jamesraffertyguitarlessons1380]

Do you think you could carry a sleeping bag and tent in it??

[@steffenchristmas1987]

Yes, absolutely. I regularly do 2 and 3 day unsupported running adventures with 20l vests - BUT, it obviously depends on the size and weight of the tent and sleeping bag you intend to carry! 😊 You might alao like to checkout Kieran's excellent review on this channel of the Instinct XX 18-24l pack. I've using been these types of packs for years, I used to work in the industry and have tried nearly every brand available, and I'd agree with Kieran that the Instinct is a really stable, effective, well thought out pack. I love it. Good luck with your choice. Have fun.