Last updated on April 13th, 2021 at 09:19 pm
Running trails and mountains tops offer challenging terrain, scenic views, and a freedom that urban tracks lack. However, ultra long distance runs will require plenty of hydration and planned snacks to keep the body moving. Enter the mighty hydration vest. These sleek, low-profile vests provide ample storage and all the water you’ll need without weighing you down. Through this post, we’ll review the best hydration vests for trail running and ultrarunning to help find the right one for you.
What Makes a Great Hydration Vest for Trail Running?
Every long distance runner will search for their particular balance between storage and hydration capacity, without compromising on durability or weight. And you definitely don’t want to worry about improper fit or excess movement with those extra miles.
With that in mind, we’ve rounded up some key factors you should consider when selecting the right hydration vest:
- Choose a capacity: You’ll want to be sure the running vest has ample space to carry enough water, gels, solid food, and extra clothing. For trail runs 2-3 hours long, choose a vest with between two and six liters of overall capacity. Ultrarunners with 3-6 hours of trail time should aim for between four to eight liters of overall volume. And for unsupported ultramarathon races, consider the largest capacity available for extra solid food and additional calories.
- Select your water carry system: Most vests can carry water in one or more ways: in water bottles that stow in pockets or in a hydration reservoir that slips into a sleeve at the back. Bottles are easier to refill at aid stations. However, we find that a combination of both serves well on long distance runs. Especially if there’s quite a ways between aid stations. As a rule, most vests include the space for a bladder but do not include them, bear this in mind when searching.
- Find a snug, secure fit: You want a vest that won’t shift around while you run. A general rule: trail running hydration vests should fit snugly to your shape and body contours. To ensure the right fit, follow manufacturer sizing guidelines.
Additional features: Lots of vests offer handy extras to enhance your run, like extra pockets, built-in whistles, reflective trim, trekking pole loops, and breathable construction.
Our Favorite Hydration Vests for Trail Running and Ultrarunners Are...
We put our team of picky testers to work to vigorously compare a selection of popular hydration vest models. After weighing many options against all of our most important tests, these few deserve special mention:
Best overall: Osprey Duro 6
Our second favorite: Salomon Active Skin 8
Our favorite for lightweight runs: Nathan VaporAir
Best for day-long and unsupported ultramarathons: Osprey Duro 15
Without further ado, let’s race right into what makes these winners and others so great.
Comparison Table of Hydration Vests for Trails and Ultrarunning
We’ve placed our favorites below for a side by side comparison and some quick links. However, we go into much more detail below about why we love these options for the trails and ultrarunning.
| Picture | Name / Link | Hydration Capacity | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 
|
Osprey Duro 6 | 1.5 L bladder included, extra space for two soft flasks | $$ |
 
|
Salomon Active Skin 8 | Two 500ml soft flasks included, compatible with 2L bladder (not included) | $$ |
 
|
Nathan VaporAir | 2 L bladder included, extra space for two soft flasks (not included) | $$ |
 
|
Osprey Duro 15 | 2.5 L bladder included, also added space for soft flasks (not included) | $$$ |
 
|
Camelbak Circuit | 1.5 L bladder included, ample space for two additional soft flasks (not included) | $ |
 
|
Nathan Vaporkrar | Two 12oz soft flasks included, compatible with 1.5 L bladder (not included) | $$$ |
As you can see, many of our options hover around the same price point and share some key features. However, read further to see why we celebrate these vests and trust our longest runs to some of them.
1. Osprey Duro 6
For a compelling mix of lightweight durability and lots of handy extras for your run, the Osprey Duo 6, or Dyna 6 for women, hits the mark.
Moreover, both options accommodate enough food, gels, and gear to get you there and back, even for longer runs requiring some extra cargo.
Hydration Included!
Most importantly, this vest has several options for hydration. Thus, you’ll be able to customize your pack and stay fueled regardless of the journey. Whether you prefer bottles or a reservoir, you can arrange it any way you like.
Add-on flexibility means you can enjoy this vest on both short and long runs. You decide what you need.
In fact, the Duro 6 comes with it’s own hydration bladder that we have found to be exceptional. The only downside is that the water in the tube tends to warm quickly in the sun. However, with a well constructed, zippered reservoir sleeve, it stays in place and performs like a charm.
Easy Gear Access
Quick access to your essentials is important on endurance runs and during training. However, secure front pockets in the Duro 6 keep needed items right within arm’s reach.
Additionally, this model also features trekking pole storage for particularly challenging or unknown trails. This option frees up your hands between pole use so you can get back to running those glorious miles.
And, as an added bonus, there’s ample room for rain gear and extra layers within Duro’s sleek yet accommodating design. Moreover, if it’s hands-free freedom you’re after, you’ll love the side panel stretch mesh pockets with dual accessibility.
Finally, there’s even a safety whistle included for added safety in the remote wilderness.
Built for Speed
Speed demons, unite! The Duro 6 is one of the most snug and bounce-free hydration vests on the market. So, with guaranteed stability time after time, this vest is easily a winner. And Osprey stands by this guarantee.
The Duro features a vest-pack fit that’s purpose built, so it’s specially designed to conquer your most lively treks. This means you can focus more on the trail and less on the comfort of your attire.
Runners love the Duro’s breathable mesh belt for a comfortable midsection, even with harsh movement. And its well thought pockets and compartments offer hassle-free wear, so you can sprint even faster.
Osprey Duro 6 Pros and Cons
Osprey Duro 6 PROS
- Included hydration bladder
- Durable construction
- Plenty of space for soft flasks
- Breathable mesh
- Fully adjustable to multiple sizes
- Lots of extras, like trekking pole storage, extra pockets, sternum magnet, and safety whistle
Osprey Duro 6 CONS
- Drinking tube insulation not included
- Double check the safety whistle’s effectiveness, as some can be defective
Who is This Hydration Vest Perfect For?
Both newbies and experienced trail runners alike can enjoy the benefits of the Osprey Duro 6 hydration vest. Moreover, it’s versatile to suit all trail lengths, conditions, and it’s loaded with handy features. Additionally, it’s backed by Osprey’s iron-clad lifetime warranty. Checkout more information, including current pricing and styles, here: Osprey Duro 6 Men’s Hydration Vest or the Osprey Dyna 6 Women’s Hydration Vest
2. Salomon Active Skin 8
To reduce fatigue and chaffing on an ultrarun, a contoured and comfortable fit is what you’re after. And, with the Salomon’s Active Skin 8 hydration vest you’ll get just that. Runners love this vest for its soft fabrics and inner mesh, which can matter a lot during endurance trials and in the heat. And with easy-to-access hydration options, the Active Skin 8 is a great go-to pack.
Lasting Comfort for Endurance Runs
Salomon’s patented Sensifit vest technology adapts to your body for unmatched stability. The Active Skin 8 is constructed with a stretchy mesh fabric that morphs to your every move.
On the whole, runners celebrate this vest for its ability to stay snug and prevent chaffing even during the most vigorous terrain.
Designed with variable body curvatures in mind, this vest features small adjusting systems to offer support and enhance comfort. It even supports proper breathing. In short, double stretch construction straps conform to the chest to eliminate bounce and allow for expansion during vigorous breath.
This is perfect for endurance runners who place great importance on breathing regulation during their outings.
Quick & Easy Hydration
Where hydration is concerned, this vest packs a punch. In fact, the Active Skin 8 features two huge 500ml soft flasks where others only offer 12 ounce options.
Additionally, this vest is compatible with a 1-2 liter hydration bladder if reservoir-style drinking is your preference. However, this isn’t included with the vest. Which is not a terrible thing if you’ve got a favorite bladder that you prefer to use.
Impressive Storage
If you’re looking for a pack with lots of storage for its small size, look no further.
The Active Skin 8 is a top contender in our storage category with secure, expandable pockets and plenty of additional space in the back pouch.
In fact, this pack offers a hefty 8 liters of understated volume to fill with rain gear, solid foods, identification, and keys.
Runners will also appreciate the large easy-access opening that allows you to easily view items.
Pros and Cons of the Salomon Active Skin 8
Salomon Active Skin 8 PROS
- Two soft 500ml hydration flasks included
- Unisex
- Secure, customized fit
- Breathable fabrics
- Ample storage capacity
- Handy extras, like a devoted key holder and 3D air mesh design
Salomon Active Skin 8 CONS
- Front clasps may feel cumbersome to some
- Check shoulder seams after repeated wear for stitching integrity
Why Will Trail Runners Love This Hydration Vest?
An all-around solid choice for customized fit, handy hydration, and ample storage, the Salomon Active Skin 8 snags our runner-up spot. Endurance runners in particular will enjoy the breathability and contoured fit of this hydration vest, which is just as suitable for longer runs as it is for morning sprints. View more information including sizing and current pricing here: Salomon Active Skin 8
3. Nathan VaporAir
For a tried and true hydration vest with modern refinement, stick to the Nathan VaporAir.
Offering an effortless hydration system and a lightweight, comfortable fit, it also offers tons of storage for essentials within a variety of pockets.
Lightweight Construction
Weighing in at only 14 ounces (that’s less than a pound!) this vest is perfect for weight-conscious distance runners. While wearing the VaporAir, you’d never even know that it can handle up to 427 cubic inches of storage capacity, and keep you light on your toes.
Every feature of this hydration vest is designed with weight in mind. Even its soft-touch binding and mesh are ultra lightweight.
Thus making this a great option for trail runners to hit the trails with freedom of mind and of body.
Pockets and More Pockets
Where do we even begin? There are just so many options to choose from! Perhaps we should start with the zippered smartphone-compatible pocket at the front. This is a fantastic option to safely keep your phone secured.
However, the versatile side stretch mesh pockets are possibly the best feature. Especially if you prefer to pack loads of gels, small essentials, or use them to add two additional water flasks.
The VaporAir offers massive storage capacity for its size and weight. And its varying pocket sizes only add to the versatility of what runners can store.
Super Breathable Materials
Runner agree, this vest is one of the most breathable and comfortable models on the market. And, as the name suggests, the VaporAir is constructed of body mapped, super breathable materials for maximum dryness and cooling.
The VaporAir is the perfect hydration vest for warmer weather, even if it’s wet outside. Additionally, its over-the-shoulder load lifters keep water and gear close to your body for less bounce and even more breathability.
Pros and Cons of the Nathan VaporAir
Nathan VaporAir PROS
- Super lightweight construction
- Impressive storage capacity
- Loads of individual pockets
- Breathable materials
- Affordable
Nathan VaporAir CONS
- Could do with a bit more adjustability options
- Some runners feel it rides a bit high under the arms
Who Would This Vest be Perfect For?
Weight-conscious distance runners will absolutely love the lightweight, durable Nathan VaporAir hydration vest. Not only does it make your hydration options quick and easy, but it’ll store all your essentials for a long trek in the wilderness. Check out more information, including current pricing, here: Nathan VaporAir Men’s Hydration Vest and the Nathan VaporAiress Women’s Hydration Vest
4. Osprey Duro 15
For the most hardened of us, the Osprey Duro 15 fits the bill. With an immense amount of storage and all day hydration, this vest sings for ultrarunners in rain or shine.
Additionally, we love this pack for its snug fit and extra adjustment straps for an endlessly customizable fit.
Loads of Hydration at the Fingertips
This vest is an amped up version of the Duro 6 from above. Here, the Duro 15 is an impressive specimen offering a 2.5 L hydration bladder!
We’ve found that this model goes the distance in terms of hydration. Heading to the most extreme race is not a problem. And, an added bonus, there’s also plenty of space for gels and electrolyte packs as well.
Furthermore, two 250ml soft flask can be added for ultrarunners on water-scarce routes or those without many aid stations.
Impressive Storage Capacity
Overall, this is the best pack we’ve found that offers supreme durability and all of this capacity to carry what you may need on an ultr run in the most extreme locale.
In fact, the Duro 15 offer up a generous 15 liters of storage. But what would space be without organization!
This vest is chocked full of separated pockets throughout that will have the most seasoned ultrarunner smiling.
We’ve found that the Duro 15 offers plenty of space for rain gear, solid foods, broth, sunglasses, and gels with room to spare. In fact, the unique addition of hip pockets are revolutionary for easy snatching of gels.
Osprey Duro 15 Pros and Cons
Osprey Duro 15 PROS
- Endless storage options
- High capacity of water storage
- 2.5 L bladder included
- Plenty of extras like trekking pole storage and safety whistle
- Hipbelt stability strap
- Bounce-free, snug fit
Osprey Duro 15 CONS
- Cost
Who is This Vest Perfect For?
Ultrarunners heading out on extreme runs will love the Duro 15. With seemingly endless storage and hydration, this vest is comfortable and snug for the ride. Check out more information, including current pricing, here: Osprey Duro 15 Men’s Hydration Vest or the Osprey Dyna 15 Women’s Hydration Vest
5. CamelBak Circuit
If you are you about to embark on a timed race or long run, check out the popular CamelBak Circuit hydration vest. This pack has been redesigned to deliver 20% more water per sip for faster hydration. In short, it’s a great streamlined option for the ultrarunning crowd.
Superior Ventilation
Featuring a new 3D micro mesh, the Circuit is better ventilated and more breathable than previous CamelBak hydration vest designs. More breathability means better sweat management during your trail run, so you can stay dry and run confident.
And, with a one-size-fits-most design you can use this vest for a variety of activities, weather conditions, and distance durations.
Easy Hydration Flow
Staying hydrated on the go has never been easier or more efficient! Especially, in sweat-induced weather or during a challenging marathon. With its 1.5 liter CRUX reservoir, the Circuit delivers 20% more water with each sip.
A quick release reservoir design make it super easy to refill on the go at aid stations. In fact, CamelBak is popularly regarded as one of the easiest hydration systems out there as it hooks up right to the adjustable sternum strap. Thus giving easy water access so you can focus on your footing.
Adjustable, Custom Fit
Finally, one massive problem with many hydration vests is that they tend to ride up high on the body. However, you won’t have to worry about this with the Circuit. Two full adjustable sternum straps and dual side compression areas ensure a stable fit over any terrain.
In short, the Circuit fits snugly to your body, no matter your shape. Just adjust the harness and let this hydration vest do the rest. Before long, many runners forget even wearing it.
CamelBak Circuit Pros and Cons
CamelBak Circuit PROS
- Full adjustability to allow for a snug, custom fit
- Faster water flow than previous designs in the same range
- Breathable materials
CamelBak Circuit CONS
- Less cargo storage than its competitors
Who Would Love This Hydration Vest?
If you’re a mid-distance trail runner that carries only the barest necessities, the CamelBak Circuit is the perfect hydration vest for you. And it’s backed by CamelBak’s powerful lifetime warranty in case anything happens along the way. You can view more information, including current pricing, here: CamelBak Circuit Men’s Hydration Vest or the Camelbak Circuit Women’s Hydration Vest
6. Nathan Vaporkrar
If hydration flasks are more your style, give some strong consideration to the Nathan VaporKrar hydration vest. Designed with the minimalist in mind, the Vaporkrar offers a lightweight and durable option that will get you through the toughest courses with ease.
Super Lightweight
As mentioned above, the VaporKrar is a fantastic option for those that search for a weightless addition to the trails. Weighing in at only 11 ounces, this hydration vest is impressively light. And, with that light weight comes a high level of breathability and comfort.
We’ve found that the light materials and seem work are just plain amazing on long endurance runs.
This doesn’t mean a compromise in storage capacity either.
Plenty of Storage
Even though this vest appears streamlined, we’ve found there to be ample space for a phone and several gels.
Additionally, a small compactible rain coat can be stowed in the back pouch. All of which can stay snug and secure in the VaporKrar’s lightweight profile.
In fact, the VaporKrar still holds a generous 4 liters, with pockets everywhere from the chest to the shoulder.
Featuring several water resistant, zippered pockets, including a large front-stash pocket for easy access items, you can bring all your essentials along with you on the trail.
Easy Hydration
Most importantly, this vest is equipped with ample hydration. Two 20-ounce soft flasks that are included with this system.
Above all, each of these flasks has an extended tube to easily sip fluids without removing the flasks from their dedicated front pockets.
Thus, making it a sort of hybrid between a bottle and reservoir system, as it offers a hands-free option for staying hydrated on the go.
Additionally, if you need a bit more hydration for a longer haul, a 1.5 liter hydration bladder can be added later on.
Nathan VaporKrar Pros and Cons
Nathan VaporKrar PROS
- Flasks feature extended tubes for hands-free drinking
- Unisex
- Super lightweight
- Extra features, like an integrated safety whistle and reflective trim for nighttime
- Lots of pockets
Nathan VaporKrar CONS
- May tend to ride high on some body types
- A bit pricier than similar items of other brands
Who is This Vest Perfect For?
Any level of trail runner or ultrarunner can appreciate this vest in all its versatility. And it’s lightweight enough to keep you nimble while still fitting all your personal items snugly in place. Check out more information, including current pricing, here: Nathan VaporKrar Hydration Running Vest
Before Picking Your Hydration Vest
There are loads of hydration belts on the market. However, when it comes to running the trails or ultrarunning, there are a few things to keep in mind.
- Increased Need for Hydration. we all know that we need to stay hydrated, but training routes are water-scarce and some marathons have few aid stations. Keep this in mind when considering your water load. And choose a vest that suit you as far as your preference toward a bladder or flasks.
- Room for Essentials. These include things like your keys and identification. However, it’s also a good idea to consider packing rain gear, sunglasses and chafing protection. But most importantly, ultrarunners need to fuel up with calories along the track. Additionally runners heading out onto a 50+ miler will need to consider packing solid foods.
- Snug, Bounce-Free Fit. In order to get through the race without chafing and extensive fatigue, you’ll want a securely fitting vest. It’s best to try these out beforehand and use during your training to get the best fit for your marathon. With all the jostling about on the trails or extreme conditions, you’re sure to get injured, strain the neck or sustain chafing with a loose vest.
- Additional Features. While these aren’t necessary for all runners, there are some features that set vests apart. Consider if you need extra storage, a place to stow your trekking poles, or a whistle, for instance.
With all of this in mind, you’re well on your way to choosing the best hydration vest to tackle your next run. And while it seems daunting, we promise it’s well worth the search.
Seize the Day and Stay Fueled
You’ve probably seen us mention the proverbial “golden rule” across our site: if you have to think about your gear at all while you’re out in the elements, you’re wearing the wrong gear for you. Always remember this when choosing your outdoor gear, including hydration vests for long distance use. So, choose a hydration vest for trail running that is best suited for your individual needs.
Nature is out there for the taking. And where there are trails, or even where they are absent, there is a sense of pride, adventure, and self-reflection to be had. So get out there, test your body’s endurance and experience the endless expanse of nature’s beauty.
Image Credit: Viktor Vorobev |(source)| Public Domain Mark 1.0 –reduced file size