The 6 Best Running Hydration Vests, Tested by Our Team (2024)

Running is one of the most accessible forms of cardio, and you don’t need much to reap its benefits — which can include a stronger heart and lifted spirits. (1) Whether you’re hitting your miles on outdoor trails or squeezing in your training on one of the best treadmills for running, staying hydrated is key. Once you’ve laced up your sneakers, figured out your route, and queued up your tunes, slipping on one of the best running hydration vests can help support your training by providing security for your valuables, and allowing you to wet your whistle when your whistle needs a sippy of wa-wa.

Our team has tried and tested nearly 20 of the most popular vests for running, and I’ve personally put 12 of them through the paces. While navigating our recommendations, you’ll want to consider the type of training you’re looking to support. Do you need a hydration sleeve for ultramarathon efforts when you can’t rely on aid stations? How much gear and goodies do you want to carry with you? Whether you’re looking to tackle the high elevation of Colorado’s 14ers or need some extra visibility while cruising the busy streets of Los Angeles, our top picks below have you covered.

The 6 Best Running Hydration Vests of 2024

• Best Running Hydration Vest Overall: Patagonia Slope Runner Vest
• Best Lightweight Hydration Vest for Running: The North Face Sunriser Run Vest 8
• Best Hydration Vest for Trail Running: Nathan Sports Pinnacle FeatherLite 1.5 Liter Hydration Vest
• Best Running Hydration Vest for Racing: Salomon ADV Skin 5 Set
• Best Budget Hydration Vest: UTOBEST Running Vest
• Best Reflective Hydration Vest for Running: TRIWONDER Hydration Pack

Best Running Hydration Vest Overall: Patagonia Slope Runner Vest

Pros

Breathable, lightweight fabric

Two included HydraPak flasks

Lots of storage and trekking pole holders

Patagonia will repair damages for free (with a small shipping fee)

Cons

Expensive

Not the most durable vest

Front fasteners can be hard to hook

The Patagonia Slope Runner Vest looks like a simple hydration running vest, but it’s super adjustable and has tons of storage so you’re comfortable and equipped during running workouts through the city or on a backcountry trail. I took this vest out on three separate weekends to see how I liked it compared to the competition, and while I think it’s best suited for long expeditions, it ended up being my favorite companion on my shorter runs. Functionality, comfort, and workout experience scored a 5 out of 5.

Made from polyester, nylon, and spandex, it’s lightweight at just 6.9 ounces. I also liked the breathability provided by the mesh shoulders, back, and sides. You get two 500-milliliter HydraPak flasks with this vest, both of which fit securely on the front of the pouch. If you’ve never used these before, once they’re filled up, all you have to do is bite on the mouthpiece to drink. 

Let’s talk about storage, because this vest isn’t playing around. There are four front pockets: two hold your HydraPak flasks, and the other two are perfect for keeping snacks at the ready or even stowing a phone — my iPhone 12 Pro Max fits entirely within all of these pockets. Loops on the back and front of the vest can also hold your trekking poles. Functionality scored a 5 out of 5.

On the back of the vest, there’s a zipper compartment to keep your valuables. I also really like that there’s a key clip to save you from that dreaded moment when you get back to your car after a long run and start frantically patting down every pocket, thinking “I guess I live here now.” You’ll also find a bladder pouch on the back for your longer expeditions and a large stash pouch for jackets, which we found reachable mid-stride in a pair of our best running shoes.

Compared to other hydration vests I’ve tried, this doesn’t feel as durable, which is wild considering the $169 price tag — almost $50 to $90 more than others on the market. Durability scored a 4 out of 5. However, Patagonia does mend damaged gear for free (plus a small shipping fee). 

My biggest gripe with this vest is the front fasteners. It took me six attempts to try and get the lower plastic hook to link to the bungee cord when fastening the vest shut. 

Best Lightweight Hydration Vest for Running: The North Face Sunriser Run Vest 8

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Pros

Lightweight at about 9 ounces

Bladder pocket with internal routing for hose

Two included 500-milliliter HydraPak soft flasks

Trekking pole holder and lots of storage

Cons

Front pockets aren’t very deep

Thin fabric fastener may not keep your hydration bladder secure

Staying hydrated while logging miles is essential, and the lightweight North Face Sunriser Run Vest 8 aims to keep you sucking down H2O without feeling like you’re lugging around liters of water. This running hydration vest weighs 9 ounces, about the same weight as a full-grown hamster, and comes with two 500-milliliter HydraPak soft flasks, plus a 2-liter hydration reservoir in the back with internal routing to give you easy access to the straw when you need it. (2)

I wore this on a little 5-mile loop — it didn’t jostle around, it didn’t dig into my shoulders or rub under my arms, I hardly noticed I had it on even with the soft flasks filled. Workout experience scored a 5 out of 5.

On race day of the Senshuu International Marathon in Japan, I’d started too quickly and in the last 5 kilometers, my entire body cramped. If I could do it all over again, I would have thrown this vest on, filled up a bladder with water, and packed the HydraPak flasks with the best electrolyte supplements. 

One qualm with this vest is the fabric fastener that’s supposed to keep your bladder pack secure. The fastener is weak, even when brand new, and this can lead to the bladder pouch sloshing around unrestrained in the back pocket.

There’s tons of storage on this vest. Five front pockets, a bladder pouch, a trekking pole holder, and a deep, secure main compartment in the back. Unlike some other hydration running vests, my phone could only fit in the sleeves where the HydraPak flasks fit, so if you want your phone nearby, you may need to swap out one of these flasks. Additionally, the lower pockets for snacks are shallow, and I couldn’t fully relax into my run for fear that my watermelon-flavored peach rings would pop out. Functionality scored a 4 out of 5.

I preferred the fit and adjustments on this vest to others I’ve tested. The front closure buckles were easy to snap together, and side adjustments could be made to tighten or loosen the fit. Adjustability scored a 5 out of 5.

Best Hydration Vest for Trail-Running: Nathan Pinnacle FeatherLite 1.5-Liter Hydration Vest

Pros

Mesh shoulder and back panels keep you cool on the trail

Large reflective lettering on front and back

Includes a HydraPak soft flask

Cons

Chest straps are long and flap around

No bladder pouch

No zipper pocket for dedicated valuables

When hitting the trails, you’ll want a race vest that keeps you hydrated, with enough storage to stash a jacket, stow your valuables, and keep snacks within reach. The Nathan Pinnacle FeatherLite 1.5-Liter Hydration Vest is light, breathable, and ready to support your LISS cardio trail runs with a water flask, a secure zippered back pouch, and multiple pockets to hide away mid-mile fuel. Fit and comfort scored a 5 out of 5, while the storage capacity scored a 4 out of 5.

Twin pockets on the front can hold 20-ounce water flasks, and you’ll also get one HydraPak 500-milliliter soft flask to keep you hydrated during long loops. Even as the sun beats down on you, the power mesh shoulder and back panels can help keep you cool, allowing for more airflow between your sweaty body and the vest. Comfort scored a 5 out of 5.

The rear pouch features a side zip that can be used to hold onto your valuables. When I used this vest, I liked that I was able to reach into this pocket to pull out my jacket without having to take the vest off. Plus, I didn’t have a problem keeping my keys and wallet in one of the front pouches thanks to the fabric fastener. 

However, pockets scored a 3 out of 5. I knocked this down two points because I would have preferred to have a more secure zipper pocket dedicated exclusively to keys or a wallet.

If your run takes you longer than expected and you’re heading back to your car at dusk, the large reflective lettering on the front and back can help keep you visible to traffic. Compared to the best hydration packs I tried, this one was the most visible at night.

The mesh shoulder straps felt comfortable thanks to the lightweight 4.4-ounce build. However, this lighter weight comes at the cost of an included bladder pouch on the running pack, so those looking to tackle some serious miles may want to consider if that’s something they need. Hydration scored a 3 out of 5.

[Related: How Much Water Do You Really Need to Drink a Day?]

Lastly, I didn’t love how long the chest straps were when I had everything tightened. The excess material on the sternum strap dangled down in front of me and swooshed back and forth throughout my run. 

Best Running Hydration Vest for Racing: Salomon ADV Skin 5 Set

Pros

Carries 5 liters of water to support endurance racers

Insulated sleeve keeps your reservoir cool

Variety of pockets

Cons

Runs small

Front fastener could be better

You’ve trained on the best treadmills, tapered on outdoor trails, and now the Salomon ADV Skin 5 Set can help support you on race day. With up to 5 liters of water storage — an insulated 1.5-liter sleeve in the back (that can stay cool for longer, even as your body and the weather heats up) and two soft flasks in the front pockets — you’ll have what you need even if the next aid station is miles away. 

The pocket game on this vest is ideal for race day when you want to make sure you have everything you need. The large kangaroo stash pocket in the back has a slight compression to it, so you won’t feel like your bladder pouch, jacket, or whatever you’d care to carry, is bouncing around. There’s also a secure zip pocket on the front meant for valuables, however, I would have liked two zipper pockets because I like to keep my wallet and keys separate from my phone. 

Unlike some of the more minimalist vests we tried, there are a ton of stretch pockets throughout the vest, ideal for storing easy-to-reach snacks, sunscreen, chafe cream, and extra layers like a rain jacket for when you get caught running in the rain. There’s even a pocket dedicated to trash, which is an awesome way to keep GU and melted chocolate on old wrappers from gunking up your other goodies. Storage scored a 4 out of 5.

I was excited to try out a unisex option, especially since my partner also enjoys running. I thought, maybe he’d stop complaining about all the fitness gear accumulating in our apartment if I told him he could use it too! I usually wear a women’s size small and my boyfriend wears a men’s medium, but I had read that the vest runs small so I went with a size large. It fit me fine and was comfortable once I tightened it up, however it was way too small for my partner. You’ve been warned, you may need to size up one or two sizes. Fit scored a 2 out of 5.

I’d recommend this vest for those looking to tackle some serious mileage due to its breathable construction, variety of pockets, hydration capabilities, and it just feels like it will last a very long time — durability scored a perfect 5 out of 5. 

While the front fastener can cinch down and create a fit that suits your personal preference, this was probably my least favorite part of the construction. There’s only one bungee cord across the entire front, so if you tighten it at all, it’s going to tighten everywhere which may not be ideal for those with a larger chest. Comfort (for my itty-bitty… chest) scored a 4 out of 5. 

Best Budget Hydration Vest: UTOBEST Running Vest

Pros

Affordable $39.98 price

Included 1.5-liter bladder

Water tube with buckle

Cons

Not a ton of front fastener adjustability

Zipper pocket for phone can’t be reached when worn

You don’t have to add running away from bill collectors to your running and strength training routine with the $39.98 UTOBEST Running Vest. While some vests that we considered for this round-up cost a pretty penny ($150 Ultimate Direction Ultra Vest, $160 Nathan VaporAir 3.0, $160 Camelbak Zephyr Pro Vest, to name a few), this vest is nearly a quarter of the price and includes a 1.5-liter bladder  — a reason why value scored a perfect 5 out of 5 — so you can hit the ground running.

It’s an awesome entry-level running vest, especially if you’re new to running or unsure if you should splurge on a higher-priced model. We’re big fans of testing out a low-priced tool before investing in the big-ticket options.

While we appreciate that this vest includes pockets galore — a large zipper pouch in back, two zipper pockets on the front, and two front flask pockets — we do wish that the secure zipper pocket on the front was completely accessible when the vest is on. The design has this zipper behind the lower waist strap, which makes reaching in to pull out your phone when you’re in the middle of your workout a struggle. Storage scored a 3 out of 5.

We also wouldn’t recommend this vest for longer runs, since the two front fasteners are limited in their adjustability and are best suited for chests between 31.5 inches and 47.2 inches. Dialing in the type of fit that’ll keep this vest from rubbing or chaffing you as the miles stack up won’t be as tailored as other vests we tried, since you won’t be able to move these fasteners vertically to better suit your body. Adjustability scored a 3 out 5. However, these fasteners do feature an attachment that keeps your water tube from bouncing, which we love. 

Best Reflective Hydration Vest for Running: TRIWONDER Hydration Pack

Pros

Front, shoulder, and back reflective strips for added visibility

Lightweight at just 4.6 ounces

Adjustable belt for a personalized fit

Cons

“One size fits most” sizing may not fit all

Pockets aren’t the best

This TRIWONDER Hydration Pack is our choice for the best reflective hydration vest for running due to it’s affordable $29.99 price, three-direction reflectivity in low-light scenarios, and the two included 250-milliliter water bottles which can be stored in the vest’s front pouches. Value, portability, and price scored a 5 out of 5.

While I’m not the biggest runner anymore — I did two marathons and then switched my training to sprints for more explosive speed — I am an avid cyclist and having a vest like this for low-light riding is necessary. Plus, at only 4.6 ounces, whether you’re walking the dog late at night, riding your bike home from work, or you’re up before the sun and getting your run in, you’ll hardly notice this vest on your back while gleaning the benefits of clueing oncoming cars as to your whereabouts. For this, portability scored a 5 out of 5.

It’s worthwhile to be a bit wary of the “one size fits all” sizing since everybody is different, we prefer to think of this as more of a “one size fits most” product. The belt is adjustable on either side, but there’s only a single buckle in the front, which means creating a tight fit for more intense workouts might not be possible. This adjustability earned a 3 out of 5.

You’ll also find a larger pocket on the back, two water flask pockets on the front, and a zipper chest pocket that’s large enough to hold your I.D. or credit card. However, because these front pockets don’t feature straps or elastic, some users have found them to be a pain. “My phone fell out and into the Hudson River during my run,” says a review. “Pockets not secure.” 

If visibility is what you’re looking for from your hydration running vest, this neon yellow mesh vest will provide it. Just don’t expect the same features and adjustability as the other options on this round-up from this budget-friendly choice.

How We Tested and Chose the Best Running Hydration Vests

The BarBend team includes marathon runners, certified personal trainers, and “I go running because it helps with my mental health” athletes —  aka, me — and we’ve personally tested nearly 20 running vests in our search for the best gear for your long-distance and sprint-training sessions. 

The BarBend equipment testing methodology is simple. We scored each profile in categories such as comfort, fit, and adjustability on a scale from 1 (not great) to 5 (awesome). We focused on the following areas of interest when testing and selecting the top vests.

• Comfort: “I look at the seams and feel of the textiles and how much irritation they can cause once I start to sweat,” says trail runner and BarBend editorial member Ben Emminger about what he looks for in a running vest. “I’ve had past vests that turned my shoulders into giant hot spots.” We prioritized vests with a comfortable fit, made from nylon and polyester for their stretchiness, breathability, and water-resistant qualities.
• Adjustability: “Having the ability to adjust the vest means you can cater an already-well-sized piece of clothing even more to properly fit the specifics of your body,” notes marathon runner and BarBend editorial member Kate Meier. We opted for hydration vests with adjustable front fasteners and easy-to-use side pulls to help users find the right fit.
• Price: To accommodate a wide range of users, we’ve included options that range from $25 up to $230.99. While lower-priced vests can lack storage and versatility, higher-priced models tend to offer a wider range of pockets and lighter overall weights. We also included a weighted vest that can assist with HIIT workouts or CrossFit WODs.
• Features: When making our picks, we looked for zipper pockets, breathable fabrics, insulated panels, whistles, bladder pouches, soft flasks, and more. Our picks tout a variety of features to support your training, regardless of the weather, mileage, or training intensity.

Benefits of Running Hydration Vests

Running vests can help keep your body temperature regulated in hot, rainy, or chilly conditions, though some options also come with hydration packs, slots for weights, and plenty of pockets. Check out the benefits of these vests below, which can support your quest for the benefits of cardio whether you’re running on the street, on trails, or at the gym.

• Hydration: When you’re out on longer trail runs, a hydration vest can help you replenish the water your body’s lost through sweat. (3) Hydration running vests often include 1- to 2-liter bladder pouches on the back or pockets on the front to store soft water bottle flasks.
• Storage: “I like a running hydration vest with a ton of pockets to hold gel, keys — even my iPhone and a packable jacket for cold starts,” said marathon runner Mykee Del Mundo. While some running vests don’t offer storage, many vests have a variety of drop, zip, and fabric pockets and bladder pouches to hold the gear you need.
• Stay Warm, Cool, or Dry: The materials and coating of these vests are chosen for their ability to heat you up, cool you down, or repel water when you’re caught in a downpour. Commonly-used materials include warm polyester, water-resistant polypropylene, and nylon, which is breathable, sweat-wicking, and stretchy. 
• Distraction-Free: Hydration running vests are often designed to be adjustable to your frame. This way, you can keep everything you need within reach and adjust fits to limit bounce, ensuring distraction-free runs.

How Much Do Running Hydration Vests Cost?

Our picks for the best running hydration vests range in price from $29.99 to $169. Keep in mind that not all hydration vests are created equal, and while we have provided affordable options, they won’t offer the same amount of storage for your gear, snacks, and water.

Best Running Hydration Vest Overall	Patagonia Slope Runner Vest	$169
Best Lightweight Hydration Vest for Running	The North Face Sunriser Run Vest 8	$89
Best Hydration Vest for Trail Running	Nathan Sports Pinnacle FeatherLite 1.5 Liter Hydration Vest	$110
Best Running Hydration Vest for Racing	Salomon ADV Skin 5 Set	$145
Best Budget Hydration Vest	UTOBEST Running Vest	$39.98
Best Reflective Hydration Vest for Running	TRIWONDER Hydration Pack	$29.99

What to Consider Before Buying a Running Hydration Vest

Whether you’re gearing up to hit the trails or curious how to stay hydrated while working out, slipping on one of the best running hydration vests can help support your efforts. Consider the following areas before making a purchase.

Hydration Vests Vs. Other Vests

Your first step in figuring out which vest is right for you and your needs is figuring out what you want from your gear. How much water do you want to support your efforts? Will you need to be able to carry a hydration bladder or are you fine with smaller soft flasks? “When I’m training for a triathlon, especially the running portion, hydration is so crucial. I tend to sweat a lot, so I always try to have at least one water bottle per hour when I’m training,” says Bojana Gailic, tri-athlete and BarBend editorial member.

If hydration isn’t your concern, and you want something lightweight to layer on when you want additional protection from the elements, look for a vest that’s packable. Other options include weighted vests that can add intensity to your training and insulated vests that help keep you warm when the temperature drops.

Fit

“If your vest is not fitted correctly, it will flop around, shift, or squeeze you uncomfortably during your workout, in which case you probably won’t ever end up wearing it,” says BarBend expert contributor Amanda Capritto. Certified personal trainer Kate Meier agrees. “Getting the right fit is key, because a vest that’s too tight will restrict movement and potentially create labored breathing,” she says. “A vest that’s too big will feel heavy and could get in the way of your arm movement, which is mostly annoying but could affect your running form.”

Fit is even more crucial as you log longer and longer days in your running shoes. “Any small movement, especially up against a sports bra, will start to chafe after a couple hours on the trail. With my previous vest, I experienced bleeding in… well, places you don’t want to have an open wound,” says Meg Leary, a trail runner who’s dabbled in ultra marathons. “Being able to adjust the tightness across various points means that I can minimize that movement and the necessity of constant BodyGlide applications.”

Depending on the amount of running you plan to do with a vest on, make sure it features enough adjustments to provide you with a fit that’ll be comfortable from start to finish.

Distance

“For extended runs that are 10+ miles, I have a roomier vest that, in addition to carrying enough water to sustain my effort, can hold my trekking poles across the back. I also like to keep my headlamp in tote for these longer routes, especially during the fall when daylight can dissipate quicker,” says BarBend editorial member and trail runner Ben Emminger. “A packable rain jacket will make its way into my pack, too, if inclement weather is a possibility.” 

If you have your eyes set on longer distances, look for packs with larger bladder pouch capabilities, trekking pole holders, and more storage for extra layers and snacks to keep you fueled for the miles ahead.

Weather

For hot weather conditions, look for vests with breathable mesh to keep you cool and the ability to carry water throughout your run. “Hydration vests, in particular, are great for longer runs or running on hot days,” notes marathon runner Patrick Aubin. “I can get a little sweaty in a vest when the sun’s really beating down on me, but it’s worth it for the extra hydration.” 

For cold weather conditions, look for vests with large storage pouches and pockets so you can stow layers like a rain coat, long sleeve, or sweatshirt. This makes it easier for you to keep running everyday, even when your bed or under a blanket try to entice you away.

Storage

“I use a running vest kind of out of necessity since a lot of my running shorts don’t have zippered pockets. Plus, I feel it’s more comfortable to wear my small essentials across my chest and back rather than at my sides where gravity can take over and create a slapping sensation over my thighs,” says Emminger. “My vests double as hydration packs, too, so they’re a means to keep water on me during longer trail runs.”

Gel, keys, wallet, jacket, extra socks, a small squished peanut butter and jelly sandwich (which honestly tastes better after heating up against your back over the course of a 7-mile run) — whatever you want to carry with you, there’s a pack built to hold what you want.

Best Running Hydration Vests FAQs

References

1. Nystoriak, M. A., & Bhatnagar, A. (2018). Cardiovascular Effects and Benefits of Exercise. Frontiers in cardiovascular medicine, 5, 135. https://doi.org/10.3389/fcvm.2018.00135
2. Niklas, & Niklas. (2024, May 16). 10 common things that weigh about 9 ounces (OZ). Weight of Stuff. https://weightofstuff.com/10-common-things-that-weigh-about-9-ounces-oz/
3. Latzka, W. A., & Montain, S. J. (1999). Water and electrolyte requirements for exercise. Clinics in sports medicine, 18(3), 513–524. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0278-5919(05)70165-4