When I was out mapping the 21km trail event for Run The Gap, I got chaffing on my neck from my hydration pack.
The pack I was using was more designed for day hiking than day running.
Although it was good, and it did the job of keeping me hydrated, it was just awkward and frankly ill-fitting.
I saw trail running in my future, and I didn’t want to be weighed down with a pack that was going to annoy me for the long run.
So to the land of google I went. I wasn’t sure I wanted a pack or a vest. They both have their advantages, but their disadvantages.
I didn’t want to order something and then hate it. So as I mentioned in yesterday’s post, I waited until I was in Melbourne to do my testing.
I ended up choosing the Salomon Women’s XT Wings Vest.
The vest doesn’t come with a bladder (which is one of the reasons it’s so cheap).
Bladders however are cheap to buy, and you can buy them in various sizes. The bladder I had in my pack was a 2L one, but this vest will quite easily fit a 3L bladder.
Salomon Women’s XT Wings Vest Specs
Dimensions:
Weight: 390g
Volume: 13 Litres
Dimensions: 43cm x 18cm x 10cm
Features:
- Whistle
- Mesh Side Pockets
- Zipped pockets
- 1 main compartment
- Bladder compartment with hanging system
- Fully adjustable
Now you may think “A Vest? How is that comfortable?”. Well, I thought the same thing. Then I tried it on. The vest is roomy. It doesn’t cut into your chest or bust, which is a huge plus. And the straps are fully adjustable.
The pack is reflective, which is an added bonus.
It does only come in this colour but I’m ok with that.
If you are looking for a new hydration pack/vest, definitely put this one on your list of items to try.
Again I purchased this one from Wiggle.
Got questions about this vest? Fire away in the comments.
I love honest product reviews! This vest looks a bit like a backpack. It reminds me of Dora. But from what I read in your post it feels comfortable. I wouldn’t have thought it did, from the looks of it.
http://www.momshomerun.com
Yeah I didn’t think I was going to like a vest.
I also tried an ultimate directions one (Scott Jurek brand), and I didn’t feel right.
Sometimes you gotta get out of your comfort zone, you never know you might get surprised.
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