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Best hydration vests and packs, tried and tested by runners
Our top picks for leisurely hikes, trail runs and marathon training
Tested by Kim HawleyHealth and Fitness Tester
Once a niche product reserved for those hardcore fitness types investing in the best running clothes on the market, now everyone seems to be sporting a hydration vest for Sunday long runs, marathon training and even leisurely walks.
Just scroll through your Instagram feed or stroll through your local park and you’ll come across countless people wearing vests crammed with energy gels, water bottles and protein bars they clock up the miles.
But what exactly makes the best hydration vest, and should you invest in one? Below, we break down everything you need to know about the viral piece of kit, plus our top tried and tested recommendations.
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Best for adjustability
Kiprun Unisex Trail Running Competition Water Bottle Holder Vest 5L
Read review - 4
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How we test hydration vests
We asked a panel of keen runners and hikers to put a range of hydration vests and packs through their paces over a three-week period to see if they lived up to their claims. They used them for a variety of activities, from long training runs to casual hikes and speed sessions.
Once the testing period was complete, we asked them for feedback on a range of factors including clarity of instructions, adjustable features, comfort, storage options and durability. They also let us know whether the pockets were functional and easy to access and if the fit was secure, with minimal shifting or bouncing. Extra points were awarded to vests that looked good and were easy to care for.
Back at the Good Housekeeping Institute, our expert tester analysed all the feedback and awarded each hydration vest a final score. You'll find our winners marked with the GHI Approved logo below. We've also added some editors' picks below, which are recommended by GH runners, so there's an option for every need and budget.
Score: 87/100
Myprotein is best known for its protein snacks, many of which appear in our best protein bars roundup, but the brand’s functional fitness gear should be on your radar too. Its unisex hydration vest ticked a lot of boxes for our testers, with one saying, “I was surprised by how much I loved this product,” and another commenting: “I’d recommend it to my friends.”
There’s room for two 500ml soft flasks on the front straps and an optional 2L bladder around the back to take care of hydration needs. Our panel appreciated the array of pockets, including a zipped option at the front for your card and keys, an open pocket for gels and snacks, plus a roomy back pocket for light layers and other essentials. Best of all, they were easy to access mid-run, making this vest a top choice for race day or PB attempts.
Thanks to breathable mesh panels on the sides, testers said it scored highly for ventilation and air flow too – it kept them cool and dry, no matter how sweaty their runs were. No one experienced any unwanted chafing of bouncing, and everyone agreed that it was comfortable and secure. Size down to ensure a snug fit.
Key specifications
| Weight | N/A |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 2x 500ml bottles, 2L bladder |
| Materials | Polyamide, elastane, polyester |
Score: 87/100
For those runs when you want to go light and fast, we love this featherweight Osprey design, which has been specifically designed for women. “It’s extremely light and comfy to wear,” confirmed one happy tester.
Though small, it offers ample storage for training runs and hikes. It comes with two 500ml soft flasks for easy sipping (along with handy elastic ties to keep them in place), space for a bladder at the back and an impressive number of zipped and drop-in pockets for all your bits and bobs. It also provides storage for trekking poles, along with a whistle attachment for attracting attention in emergencies.
The vest scored highly for adjustability – testers liked the stretchy fabric and praised the adjustable chest straps and secure clips, which helped them find the perfect fit. No one had any issues with overheating thanks to the breathable mesh material, while the water-resistant coating prevented their belongings from getting soaked, even when running in heavy rain.
Key specifications
| Weight | 0.3kg |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 1.5L |
| Materials | Recycled nylon stretch mesh |
Kiprun Unisex Trail Running Competition Water Bottle Holder Vest 5L
Score: 80/100
Another fuss-free Decathlon offering, this one is designed to “fit like a glove” thanks to tightening systems on the front and sides for a superior fit and optimum stability. Our testers confirmed it moved well with their body and didn’t ride up or bounce around. “The adjustable features helped it fit and kept it balanced; they worked really well,” said one runner.
Adjustability aside, the vest is bursting with many of the features found on pricier designs. We’re talking 10 pockets – including two large stretchy ones, a zipped phone pocket, a large one on the back for layers and a kangaroo pocket – along with reflective detailing, a built-in whistle and the option to stash you walking poles, if you purchase the accompanying quiver.
When it comes to H2O, there are drop-in water bottle pockets (which fit two 500ml soft flasks), space for a third 500ml bottle around the back and a dedicated compartment for a 1L hydration bladder. Excellent stuff.
Key specifications
| Weight | 190g |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 5L |
| Materials | Polyester, polyamide, elastane |
Mountain Warehouse Track Hydro Bag 6L
Score: 80/100
Whether you’re looking to start run commuting, planning a half-day hike or clocking up the miles on a trail run, this bag-like design is ideal for stashing all your supplies, including water, a change of clothes, valuables and snacks. According to panellists, it feels extremely sturdy and durable.
Despite the compact design, it’s surprisingly roomy, with a main compartment, two small zipped front pockets for your essentials and a separate section for a 2L hydration bladder (not included). Without the bladder, there's even more space for all your gear, so you can use it for day-long outdoorsy activities and camping adventures.
Testers loved the wide, padded straps and breathable mesh material around the back, which kept them cool and allowed them to run comfortably – no sweaty backs here. They also liked the adjustable straps around the chest and waist, which allowed for even weight distribution and prevented the bag from jiggling around on the go.
Overall, a solid choice if you’re going the distance. One tester even described it as “perfect” – it doesn’t get much better than that.
Key specifications
| Weight | N/A |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 6L |
| Materials | Ripstop polyester, foam, polyurethane foam |
Score: 74/100
This generous 10L bag from the outdoors experts at Vango (we're big fans of the brand's camping gear - check out our best tents review) earned an instant thumbs up from our testers for its bright colour and reflective detailing. It’s a top pick if you’re running after dark in the autumn and winter months.
It houses a 2L hydration bladder and there’s plenty of room for all your essential items, from a light coat to your house keys. Though robust, panellists were surprised at how lightweight it felt on longer runs and hikes. They did note, though, that the pockets are placed quite high and tricky to reach mid-activity. They also would have preferred a twist mechanism on the water tube, as they found having to unscrew the cap a little fiddly while on the move. As such, they would recommend it for slower, more casual runs and hikes rather than marathon training or fast-paced sessions.
On the plus side, it was incredibly sturdy thanks to durable ripstop fabric, the AirMesh back system means it scored highly for breathability, and it boasts adjustable features for a close fit.
Key specifications
| Weight | 550g |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 10L |
| Materials | Excel® 420D Honeycomb Polyester fabric |
Editors' picks
Asics is known for its top-notch running kit, and our editors are big fans of the brand's hydration vest. Granted, it doesn’t come cheap, but it’s bursting with impressive features including two 500ml front flask pockets, numerous pockets for your snacks and valuables, reflective detailing and straps for your poles. Phew!
The material is breathable and stretchy, it’s easy to find the right fit and it moves nicely with your body, with no unwanted rubbing or chafing thanks to the clever bounce-limiting system. It’s also a breeze to adjust on the go using the magnetic buckles.
Key specifications
| Weight | N/A |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 7L |
| Materials | Polyester, elastane |
If you’re new to running or on a tight budget and don’t want to spend over the odds on a hydration pack you may only use from time to time, this UTOBEST design is a good choice.
Despite the lower price tag, it has everything you need from a running vest – multiple pockets (including two for water bottles, one big compartment and three smaller sections), adjustable straps and reflective detailing to stay seen when it’s dark.
It’s made with high-density mesh to wick away moisture and the fabric itself is comfy and stretchy, allowing you to focus on your performance. It doesn’t boast any fancy features but for the average runner, it’s a reliable running buddy.
Key specifications
| Weight | 250g |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 5L |
| Materials | Nylon, elastic power mesh |
This Salomon vest is ideal for Sunday long runs, trail sessions and hiking. The clever design really does feel like a second skin, with an adjustable strap to keep it in place throughout your runs, generous pockets for your essentials and even a large pocket at the back for stashing your layers when you get hot and bothered.
It can also hold up to eight litres of water, with two flasks included with your purchase. Storage aside, it’s constructed from that all-important lightweight fabric, and it doesn’t cause any uncomfortable rubbing.
Key specifications
| Weight | 210g |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 8L |
| Materials | Polyamide, polyester, elastane |
This Kiprun design has been made with the female body in mind. There are adjustable straps so you can tailor the fit to your body shape and the flasks are specially designed and positioned lower than most vests, giving you more room around the chest – particularly handy if you have larger breasts.
It includes a whopping 11 pockets in a variety of sizes, including a waterproof one for your phone and lots of smaller ones for fuel and bars. It's also lightweight and comfortable, whether you’re pushing the pace or going on an easy jog.
Key specifications
| Weight | 240g |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 8L |
| Materials | Polyester, elastane, polyamide, polyurethane |
H&M might not spring to mind when it comes to running kit, but its fuss-free hydration vest is worth considering, according to our editors. With breathable mesh panels, adjustable straps for a secure fit and front pockets with an elasticated drawstring to keep your water bottles in place, it ticks all the boxes. It also has reflective detailing if you need to clock up the kilometres during marathon training and are running after dark.
It comes in a range of sizes and there are two stylish colourways to choose from.
This neat little backpack from New Balance is a reliable pick if you want to carry some extra kit on your adventures. It features padding around the back, adjustable shoulder straps and a hip strap to ensure ultimate comfort and a secure fit.
The lightweight, streamlined design means it doesn’t feel bulky on the move, and the pack has reflective detailing for all your dimly lit runs. It only comes in one size, but the stretchy fabric should fit most people. There’s also a larger 15L option if you need more space for your bits and bobs.
Key specifications
| Weight | 1kg |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 4L |
| Materials | Polyester, elastane |
This is the outdoorsy brand’s first foray into hydration vests and it’s seriously impressive. The Norvan 7 is super lightweight and streamlined, so it won’t get in the way or feel cumbersome on your runs and hikes. There are multiple front pockets, which are a doddle to access mid-activity, along with two flask holders for keeping your fluids up and roomy dump pockets at the back for your larger items.
Toggling allows you to make adjustments for a secure fit, the breathable mesh vents will stop you from overheating, and the soft fabric won’t cause friction against the skin. There’s also a reflective logo to keep you visible when running in low light.
Key specifications
| Weight | 165g |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 2L |
| Materials | Nylon, elastane |
What is the point of a hydration vest?
Sure, you could carry a water bottle and stuff your phone and keys into your pockets, but the best hydration vests and packs allow you to store all your essentials in one place and keep your fluids up, without losing momentum.
“A hydration vest is a lightweight running pack that offers easy access to hydration storage, like a water bladder or bottles, as well as extra space for other items needed during a run,” explains Karin Voller, Runners Need ambassador and Run the Wild director. “It fits to your body like a piece of clothing and provides access to every storage compartment without the need to take it off.”
For running physiotherapist, Tash Gale, a hydration vest is particularly useful for long-distance activities – whether it’s marathon training, a lengthy bike ride or a half-day hike – when staying hydrated and taking on fuel is key for endurance and overall performance.
“They can also be useful for shorter distances, making it easier to store your bits, while allowing you to move more freely. It’s a case of personal preference.” she adds.
What should I look for in a hydration vest?
Here, Voller and Gale highlight some of the key features to consider on the hunt for your new running buddy.
Fit
A poorly fitting vest can cause all manner of issues, including chafing, bouncing around or restricted movement. To prevent this, Gale suggests looking for a vest with adjustable features around the shoulders, chest and waist to ensure a snug, secure fit. “Some vests are specifically designed for women or men to better match body shapes and ensure a close fit,” she adds.
“When running, there should be no jiggling; however, the vest shouldn’t impede your arm movements either,” explains Voller. “You should also be able to reach all the compartments without removing the bag. It does take practice, but it will make you more efficient on race day.”
Capacity
Hydration vests and packs come with various storage options, ranging from 1L of water capacity all the way up to 12L, either via a hydration bladder sat on your back or soft flasks in the front pockets. It’s important to choose one that will suit the distance you’re running.
“Generally, a five- to six-litre capacity is sufficient for supported events up to 20-30 kilometres,” says Voller. “Inside, you’ll be able to fit a litre of water split between two soft flasks, along with food and additional layers.”
If you’re running for less than an hour, a 1.5 to 2L vest should do the job nicely.
Fabric
As with all running kit, you want a hydration vest that’s lightweight and breathable. “I’d recommend mesh or moisture-wicking materials that help prevent overheating and reduce chafing during long activities,” says Gale.
“Durability is also key, especially for trail runners and hikers,” she adds. “Consider vests made from ripstop nylon or polyester.”
Visibility
The experts recommend looking for a running vest with reflective features or built-in lights to help you remain visible when training in low-light conditions, whether it’s an early morning jog or after-work intervals session.
Extra features
It's worth making sure your chosen vest has enough zipped pockets so you can safely stow your valuables. If you’re into hiking or trail running, it’s also important to check if you can add a quiver (an attachment for securely holding your poles).
The verdict: Are hydration vests worth it?
Yes, a hydration vest is worth investing in, especially if you’re running or hiking long distances.
Breathable, comfortable and highly adjustable, our winner, Myprotein's unisex hydration vest, is an excellent all-rounder. If you’re after something ultra lightweight and like the idea of a vest that’s specifically designed for women, may we suggest Osprey’s Dyna 1.5 design.
Prefer a backpack design? Look to Mountain Warehouse’s Hydro Bag, which is equal parts comfortable and functional.
Why trust the Good Housekeeping Institute?
At the Good Housekeeping Institute, we've been testing products for over 100 years, so we have decades of experience and insights to build on when it comes to finding the best health and fitness buys on the market.
Our health and wellness tester, Kim Hawley, has over 30 years' experience in the fitness industry, with a level 4 personal training qualification, so she knows exactly what to look for when it comes to the best running kit.
Our senior health and wellness writer, Priyankaa Joshi, is in the process of completing her level 2 personal training qualification and is a keen runner, making her well-placed to write about the best hydration vests.
Priyankaa is our sleep and wellness expert, specialising in expert-tested reviews and roundups on the latest health and fitness products. From walking boots to running machines, Priyankaa has written about hundreds of products and is passionate about providing in-depth, unbiased reviews. Plus, as an avid runner and gymgoer, she knows exactly what to look for when finding the right gymwear, fitness tracker or earphones.
Priyankaa has an MA in Magazine Journalism from Cardiff University and over five years’ experience in health and fitness journalism. Priyankaa has written for Stylist’s Strong Women Training Club, where she regularly wrote about diversity in the fitness industry, nutrition tips, training advice and her experience completing various fitness challenges. She has also written for a variety of publications including Business Insider, Glamour, Bustle, Metro, HuffPost UK, gal-dem and more. Outside of work, Priyankaa can usually be found trying out a new gym class, seeking out London's best eats or watching a Spanish TV show in a bid to keep up her language skills.
Kim Hawley is our health and fitness product tester. Her career in fitness has spanned over 30 years. Prior to joining the Good Housekeeping Institute, she worked as a personal trainer, writer and fitness instructor for some of London’s most prestigious health clubs, including The Harbour Club, David Lloyd and The Chelsea Club. Passionate about women’s health and fitness, especially in pre/post menopause, she is also a Level 4 PT and holds a professional nutritional qualification. Kim is responsible for rigorously testing everything from cross trainers to smart watches.
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