Comparative review: From summer mountain training to racing! Highly popular trail running hydration vest

Wednesday, August 7, 2019

PaaGoWORKS , Comparison , Trail Running , Backpack , THE NORTH FACE , Arc'teryx , Small Backpack , Patagonia , OSPREY

written by Outdoor Gearzine Editorial Department

Trail running hydration vests have become quite popular. They are backpacks that are worn rather than carried on the back. While various manufacturers offer a wide range of packs, what they all have in common is that they omit a hip belt, have ample chest pockets, and the center of gravity of the backpack itself is slightly higher. Even though they are vest-type, you still need to pack the bare minimum, including snacks, water, clothing, a smartphone, a map, a headlamp, etc. (This will vary considerably depending on the course, weather, and your own experience and ability.) For hot summer mountains or races, a capacity of less than 10L is ideal. Minimal, light, and functional. We've compared and reviewed some of the most popular trail running hydration vests this summer!

table of contents

table of contents
About the items we compared and tested this time
- Test environment
- Rating points
Test results and spec comparison table
Impressions of each model
summary

About the items we compared and tested this time
Test results and spec comparison table
Impressions of each model
summary

About the items we compared and tested this time

Below are the five models we compared this time. We chose small hydration vests that are ideal for both races and midsummer training based on the following criteria:

Capacity is less than 10L
Vest-style hydration backpack
A model that can be used mainly in summer but also in spring and autumn

Here are the top 5 models chosen based on my own personal opinion

Arcteryx Norvan 7 Hydration Vest
Patagonia Slope Runner Pack 8L
PaaGoWorks RUSH 5r
The North Face TR 6
OSPREY Duro 6

Test environment

The test was conducted at Icchodai, a rest spot located beyond Mount Takao (Tokyo)

Rating points

Functionality: We checked to see if it had easy-to-use functions
Storage capacity: Determines how smoothly and simply you can take out and put in the luggage you are carrying
Fit: Judge your fit during activities
Lightweight...simply determine how light your backpack is
Breathability...Breathability is generally proportional to weight reduction, but we will make our judgment without being bound by that preconception

Test results and spec comparison table

If you find it difficult to see the table because it is lightweight for smartphones, click here

comprehensive evaluation	AAA	AAA	AA	AA	A
item	Arcteryx Norvan 7 Hydration Vest	PaaGoWorks RUSH 5r	The North Face TR 6	OSPREY Duro 6	Patagonia Slope Runner Pack 8L
This is ◎	Detailed and thoughtful storage capacity Easy to use hydration system	Pocket layout designed for user convenience Stretch mesh with excellent elasticity and breathability	Many pockets for excellent storage Shoulder harness is soft	Excellent waterproof and abrasion resistance	Refined lightness and breathability
This is △	Chest strap operation is a bit stressful	Where wear resistance and waterproofing are required	It tends to get sweaty due to the large surface area that comes into close contact with the body Heavy weight	Heavy weight Buckle position of outer stretch pocket	Chest strap is difficult to use Simple pocket layout
Functionality	★★★★☆	★★★★★	★★★★☆	★★★★☆	★★☆☆☆
Storageability	★★★★☆	★★★★★	★★★★☆	★★★☆☆	★★★☆☆
Fit	★★★★☆	★★★★☆	★★★★☆	★★★★☆	★★★☆☆
lightweight	★★★★☆	★★★★☆	★★★☆☆	★★★☆☆	★★★★★
Breathable	★★★★☆	★★★★☆	★★★☆☆	★★★☆☆	★★★★★
Specs
Actual weight (g) *Excluding hydration	254	280 (including bungee cord and cord lock)	340	325	208
material	N70r nylon 6 ripstop / Powernet stretch mesh (83% nylon, 17% spandex) / Warp knit mesh (100% polyester)	Main material: Stretch mesh	100D Matte Twill Ripstop Nylon, Sensitive® Stretch Fabric	Main: 70D x 140D nylon triangle ripstop Accent: 320Gr nylon stretch mesh Bottom: 200Gr nylon stretch mesh	Body: 1.3-oz 100% nylon ripstop with a polyurethane coating and a DWR (durable water repellent) finish. Panels: 6.1-oz 100% nylon high-flex monofilament mesh
Included	Source Hydration Bladder (2L)	Bungee cords, cord locks	－	Water supply pack LT reservoir 1.5L is standard equipment	Hydrapak water pack (2L)

Impressions of each model

Arcteryx Norvan 7 Hydration Vest

Arc'teryx Norvan 7 Hydration Vest

This is ◎

Detailed and thoughtful storage capacity
Easy to use hydration system

This is △

Chest strap operation is a bit stressful

The Norvan high-performance hurdle protection vest. For this comparison review, we've selected the 7L model. The fabric is a bit stiff like a softshell, but the extensive use of mesh material, especially in the shoulder straps, enhances breathability and lightness. The total weight is quite light, at 265g

The top features an easily accessible, water-resistant weatherproof pouch and a security pocket convenient for storing keys and other items. This is a thoughtful storage solution for mountain enthusiasts. The weatherproof pouch can be adjusted to two different positions depending on the amount of luggage you're carrying. It's a good idea to store items like wallets and maps in it. The bottom features an elastic mesh dump pocket convenient for storing items like shells. The front, including the shoulder straps, is equipped with mesh pockets and zippered pockets for storing soft flasks and energy gels. The bag also boasts excellent storage capabilities, including a compression bungee cord and pole carry pocket, which can be easily arranged and can also be used to hold walking sticks

One feature that sets this vest apart from other hydration vests is the hydration system stored in the main compartment. It comes with a Source hydration bladder (2L), and the hydration tube runs from the side of the vest to the inside. When filling the hydration bladder, there's no need to take out the hydration bladder itself; you can easily attach and detach the tube while it's still inside the vest. The tube runs from the rear side to the front and is held in place by the chest strap (the water flows out much more smoothly than with a regular hydration bladder, and I feel like I can drink it all)

There's just one thing to note. The two chest straps aren't adjustable with a sliding mechanism, which makes them a little difficult to adjust. While it may be fine once you've decided on the position, some users will likely adjust them during an activity. It seems like it's possible to end up with the chest straps at the wrong height on each side... If possible, I would have preferred a sliding mechanism with more elastic straps

The hydration tube is inserted from the side of the vest, so you don't need to remove the hydration tube

The top pocket is weatherproof and can be adjusted to two positions depending on the amount of luggage you have, while the bottom pocket is a stretch pocket that can hold a shell or other items

The weatherproof pocket can be adjusted to fit into either the upper or lower stretch pocket

PaaGoWorks RUSH 5R

PaaGo Works Rush 5R RP902 Sky Gray

created by Rinker

PaaGo WORKS

This is ◎

Pocket layout designed for user convenience
Stretch mesh with excellent elasticity and breathability

This is △

Where wear resistance and waterproofing are required

PaaGoWorks, which has a reputation for creating products that are user-focused, has entered the RUSH 5R. This is an upgraded version of the RUSH UT, which was developed for ultra-trails and has captivated many users

The main material is stretch mesh, weighing 250g. When I tried wearing it, it felt light and gentle thanks to the stretch mesh material. The center of gravity of the vest is slightly higher, making it easy to wear (as always) and providing a nice fit. The back is stretchy and fits snugly against the back, so it's surprisingly stable during activities and has decent breathability

The main compartment is accessed via a vertical zipper that opens wide, making it easy to take things in and out (although the zipper is a little stiff). The bottom of the main compartment also has a design that allows it to be adjusted to fit the amount of luggage you have (a very thoughtful touch!). The hydration pack can be accessed by laying the vest on its side, which also makes it easy to take things in and out. The pocket layout is simple and easy to access, as it was designed with extensive user feedback in mind. It features shoulder pockets that can hold soft flasks or bottles in a position that makes it easy to drink while running, large-capacity pockets for gels and other snacks, a dedicated "trash pocket" under the right armpit of the vest for discarding packaging from energy snacks and gels, and a large zippered pocket under the left armpit for securely storing valuables. The moderate flexibility of the stretch mesh adds to its ease of use

The "side adjusters" are conveniently located to provide a more optimal fit, allowing you to adjust the waist hold by simply pulling down on the cords on both sides. The included bungee cord and cord lock also add to the user's playful side (using the bungee cord provides compression for an even better fit!)

Another innovative feature is the adjustable shoulder harness, which allows you to adjust the length of the harness depending on your body type and the amount of luggage you are carrying. It certainly fits quite well, but the shoulder pads are a little stiff, perhaps because they are held in place with Velcro. They feel like they touch your collarbone a little, which may bother some people. Still, is there any other racing vest that has pursued comfort to this extent based on user feedback?

The hydration is accessed from the side, making it very easy to take in and out

Bungee cords also have a compression function, so we hope you'll make use of them

There is a useful stretch pocket at the bottom that can hold soft shells, etc

The North Face TR6

The North Face TR 6 M Backpack, Asphalt Gray

created by Rinker

THE NORTH FACE

This is ◎

Many pockets for excellent storage
Shoulder harness is soft

This is △

It tends to get sweaty due to the large surface area that comes into close contact with the body
Heavy weight

From The North Face, we picked up the TR6, an ultra-trail pack from the ever-evolving TR series. It has a capacity of 6L and weighs a slightly heavy 310g for the M size (S/290g, M/310g, L/330g). This latest update changes the concept of "carrying" to "wearing," further improving the sense of unity with the body, and as expected, it has a structure that fits very closely to the back, providing a high-class sense of stability. Further improving the fit are the three chest straps, stretch fabric under the armpits, and compression bungee cords. Perhaps because they reduce vertical movement, the pack stays in place even during intense movements and does not move around easily. However, the breathability could be improved a little more

The main compartment has a vertical double zipper at the center, which opens wide, making it very easy to take in and out clothing. There are mesh pockets on both sides of the interior. The top also features a rain cover-style Velcro flap that appears to be durable and water-resistant. However, while it's a minor point, I was concerned that the mesh pocket is inaccessible when the Velcro flap is closed. Perhaps the zipper for the zippered mesh pocket on the right side of the interior should be located on the long side... Still, the sheer number of pockets was impressive. The bottom of the main body features a large stretch pocket that can be accessed from both sides, and the shoulder harness has two stretch bottle pockets. There are two stretch slit pockets at the bottom of both front sides. The stretch pocket on the lower right front also features a security mesh pocket with a whistle zipper! However, the stretch slit pocket at the bottom of the front may be a little too large. Considering ease of use, a separate compartment would be more convenient for storing small items like gels

The stretch fabric under the arms provides a more snug fit, but the stretch pockets are a bit too big

The area around the shoulder harness was the smoothest

The stretch pocket is big enough to fit your hand in. (Personally, I'd like it to have dividers, but) it looks like you can stuff lots of small items into it

OSPREY DURO 6

OSPREY Duro 6 Electric Black -S/M-

created by Rinker

OSPREY

This is ◎

Excellent waterproof and abrasion resistance

This is △

Heavy weight
Buckle position of outer stretch pocket

We picked the Osprey Duro 6. While Osprey makes many lightweight backpacks for mountaineering, perhaps due to its emphasis on durability and water repellency, this backpack is surprisingly heavy, weighing in at 510g (S/M) with hydration included, or 540g (M/L). The shoulder straps are mesh, suggesting breathability, but... On the other hand, the straps are soft and smooth against the skin, which should help prevent chafing during extended use. The fit is quite good. The highly elastic chest strap provides an excellent fit that can withstand intense movement. The buckle at the end of the strap can be operated with a single action. However, since it's made of plastic, it's not suitable for rough handling. Care should be taken to prevent breakage

The main compartment has two zippers. It opens relatively wide and is easy to access. The secondary compartment is also very convenient for storing small items. However, there is a large stretch pocket on the outside, and the harness buckle on that pocket interferes with accessing the main compartment. This means that you have to release the buckle every time you want to access the main compartment (why did they make it this way?)

The front shoulder harness is equipped with a stretch mesh compression pocket that's deep enough to fit a 500ml water bottle and provides a decent amount of stability. There are also compression pockets on each side, which are likely to be useful for storing gels and other items, and they can hold snacks and soft shells, providing the basic storage capacity of a racing vest. The vest also has a zippered sleeve for the reservoir (hydration system), but the included hydration pack only has a capacity of 1.5L. It's a minor point, but I think a more convenient 2L version would have been better. That said, the magnetic opening for the tube, which allows it to be secured in place, is a plus

Beneath the large stretch pocket is a thick, durable material

The shoulder harness is thick and soft for an Osprey. It fits well, but it could use a little more breathability

The stretchable chest strap adds to the fit, and the stretch pockets on the shoulder harness are big enough to fit a water bottle

Patagonia Slope Runner Pack 8L

Slope Runner Pack 8L

Patagonia

This is ◎

Refined lightness and breathability

This is △

Chest strap is difficult to use
Simple pocket layout

From Patagonia, I chose the Slope Runner Pack 8L. It's a racing vest that you wear, not just carry. Its 8L capacity makes it ultra-lightweight, weighing just 200g. The main fabric is a lightweight, water-repellent ripstop nylon, made with nylon fibers sewn into cotton and nylon. It's also treated with a polyurethane coating and durable water-repellent finish. The back panel, which fits snugly against the back, is made with breathable monomesh, making it extremely breathable and comfortable. The shoulders also feel soft

The main compartment has a wide zipper for easy access. Accessing and storing hydration, clothing, and food is a breeze. A small interior zippered pocket conveniently holds essentials and includes a key loop. The chest area features four stretch mesh pockets for flasks and snacks, as well as a zippered pocket for a phone. While the basic storage capacity is decent, it's disappointing that only a vertical mesh pocket is practical on the exterior. For convenience, a rain cover-type pocket or compression bungee cords would be preferable (though there are holders for trekking poles, etc.). I also think the compression cords should be located at the bottom of the pack for smooth adjustment when you put your arms behind your back. Having them at the top of the pack makes it difficult to move your arms around. Worst of all, the chest strap is a thin, unstable string (perhaps due to an overly strict pursuit of lightweight and simplicity?). This makes it easy to feel the strap swinging around while running. The small loops make adjustment a bit frustrating. It's a shame, as this racing vest is lightweight and breathable without any complaints

The back panel that fits snugly against your back is as see-through as it looks. It's extremely lightweight and has excellent breathability

The versatility of the outer stretch pocket is questionable, and the compression cord at the top needs improvement

I'm happy with the lightweight design, but the chest strap is a thin cord type that can be easily attached incorrectly. It would have been better if it was more elastic for a better fit

summary

Of the vests I tried this time, the one I found easiest to use was the Paagowerks RUSH 5r. Its high-center-of-gravity design, pocket layout, and stretch mesh construction make it truly suitable for everyone. Adjusting the shoulder harness and attaching the bungee cords seems easy, but it feels a bit like it's for experts (lol). The Arcteryx Norvan 7 Hydration Vest also received a similar rating. It's a trail running vest packed with outstanding details, including breathability, a comfortable fit, functional pockets like weatherproof and security pockets, and an easy-to-use hydration system. If you're looking for a versatile vest to carry a lot of gear, try The North Face TR6. For those looking for durability, try the Osprey Duro 6. These two vests offer a comfortable fit thanks to their stretchy material, but are heavier due to their weather-resistant construction. In terms of lightness and breathability, the Patagonia Slope Runner Pack 8L is by far the best, but its functionality is a bit too simple, so it's worth it if you understand that. Small hydration vests have been released by various manufacturers. It's no exaggeration to say that stretch pockets around the chest have become standard. Furthermore, fabric materials are generally differentiated: mesh for breathability and lightness, and highly stretchable materials for a better fit and multi-purpose pockets. In particular, when it comes to structural fit, the chest strap is just as important as the shoulder harness. Each manufacturer has their own unique style, using stretch materials that can withstand intense movement, lightweight thin cord types, or increased numbers of straps, which is quite interesting. While user compatibility will depend on the product, each manufacturer's details stand out. They include practical pocket layouts that allow for easy access during activities, convenient bungee cords, and compression features. The next challenge will be to determine how much weather resistance, durability, and water repellency can be incorporated (at the expense of weight and breathability)