9 Best Hydration Packs and Vests, According to Running Experts
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Staying hydrated during any outdoor activity is key to feeling your best and keeping your body healthy all summer (and beyond). There are a ton of ways to carry water, but if you’re running or hiking, you’ll want to choose a vessel that minimizes bounces, has pockets to carry your essentials, and comfortably holds enough H2O. Hydration systems (including belts, vests, handhelds, waist packs, and more) check all of those boxes—they’re designed with the active person in mind and are great for staying hydrated on the go. We asked several experts how to shop for the right option for your outdoor adventure.
How to choose the best hydration system for you
Figuring out the best way to carry water is going to largely depend on your activity of choice. For anything like road and trail running, you’ll want a system that keeps your water and gear close to your body to cut down on bouncing. In that case, most runners opt for vests and belts.
If you’re hiking or walking, a daypack or waist pack should do just fine. You can stash a bit more into these, like snacks or even a lightweight raincoat, without having to worry as much about bulk.
For official races, always research what kind of hydration systems are allowed first. “A trail race might require that you run with a vest that fits a certain sized hydration bladder (also known as a reservoir), while a big city race might not allow backpacks or vests for safety reasons,” Ashley Mateo, a certified running coach based in Denver, tells SELF. If you plan on running with a permitted hydration pack, she recommends training with it prior to race day so you can get comfortable with how it feels beforehand.
Fit really comes down to preference and performance. Ideally, vests or packs should be snug, so they don’t move around a ton or cause any chafing issues, Amanda Brooks, a UESCA-certified running coach and founder of RunToTheFinish tells SELF.
“Basically, you don’t want to wear anything that’s going to overly distract you or cause discomfort,” says Mateo, adding that she prefers a vest because it distributes the weight evenly and keeps her hands free.
When testing out a vest, try carrying water in the front and back, and adjust the various straps to get the best overall feel for you.
To determine adequate capacity for your hydration pack, consider “the distance, temperature, and intensity of the exercise you’re about to pursue,” Michael Hamlin, CSCS, and NSCA-certified personal trainer tells SELF. For instance, a four-liter vest may work well for shorter runs, while a 10- to 12-liter pack with pockets for snacks, trekking poles, and extra layers might be better for longer hikes. Most running vests will be able to carry anywhere from 0.5 liters of water to two liters, using either flasks, bottles, or a bladder.
“It's better to carry a bit more water than you think you might need, especially in remote areas or during extreme weather conditions,” says Hamlin.
For your outside adventures, in general, aim for the following water intake:
- Short distance (2 to 5 miles): 12 to 20 ounces via a handheld or belt
- Medium distance (5 to 10 miles): 20 to 50 ounces (0.5 to 1.5 liters) via a small pack or vest for medium-length runs, hot weather, or adventures with a dog
- Long distances (10+ miles): 50 to 100 ounces (1.5 to 3 liters) via a larger vest or day pack for longer runs in hot weather, or if there isn’t water restock available
The best hydration packs of 2023
Based on expert input, we choose the best hydration vests, packs, and belts from top brands like Salomon, Nathan, Gregory, CamelBak, and more.
Best Overall for Running: Nathan Pinnacle Hydration Race Vest (4L)
The Nathan Pinnacle comes out on top as our best option for runners. This lightweight pack features flask pockets that sit slightly lower than other brands, to avoid pressure on the chest. With a capacity of four liters, it’s big enough for a longer day, but won’t bog you down.
For Brooks, the Pinnacle has been her go-to vest for years. “I love having two easy-to-reach flasks in front so I can carry both water and liquid nutrition,” she says. “It’s also got a waterproof pocket for my phone and plenty of other pockets for gels, keys, and other necessities when trail running.”
- Available in sizes: XXS to XL
- Capacity: 4L in gear, 40 oz. (1.18 L) in water
Budget-Friendly: Teton Sports Trailrunner 2 Hydration Pack (2L)
If you're new to trails, opt for this budget-friendly, minimalist pack from Teton Sports. The TrailRunner 2 is a basic, low-key hydration system that holds a two-liter bladder. Use the chest strap for extra support when you are going on short hikes, walks, a bike ride, or even just hitting the local park or market. Its sleek fit sits close to your body, while the exterior mesh pocket is perfect for just a few snacks.
- One size fits most
- Capacity: 2L reservoir included
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Best for Hiking: Gregory Interia 18 H2O
For a couple miles on the trail or even a day hike, pop on a small pack with a larger reservoir, like the Gregory Inertia 18 H2O. It comes with all of the features to make your hike just a little bit better, like a dedicated hydration pocket (that can double as a laptop sleeve if ever commuting), a magnetic straw clip on the chest strap, a removable hipbelt, and a zipper pocket with a key clip.
You can pack up to 18 liters worth of gear and snacks, but the pack will never feel too heavy or too sweaty. The posterior panel is made from a breathable foam that will allow for sweat to sneak out while also adding a bit of comfort to your shoulders and back. And don’t worry about slinging your pack onto the rocky ground, as the bottom is made from two layers for added durability. The included reservoir is a nice one with all the perks, like a quick disconnect spot for easy refilling, a clip for hanging and a clip for drying, plus a large and grippy port with a handle for filling.
- Available in sizes: For torso lengths of 16 to 21 inches; waist/hips 28 to 48 inches
- Capacity: 18L of gear; includes 2L reservoir
Best for Trail Running: Salomon Adv Skin 5 Running Vest
The Salomon Adv Skin vest is a top choice for Ivey Smith, founder and backpacking guide for She Treks who has completed the Appalachian, Colorado, Vermont Long, and Arizona Trails. “I’ve been using [this] same vest for the last three years and the soft flasks that it came with,” Smith says. Durable and long-lasting? Check!
If you’re looking for other Salomon vest options, there are plenty to choose from. For trail running medium distances, the Salomon Sense Pro 10 has excellent stretch and zipper pockets for all your gears and gels. Need a longer distance option? The Salomon Adv Skin 12 comes with two 17-ounce soft flasks that slip into stretchy pockets on the front, and it can fit a reservoir in the back pocket (the overall gear carrying capacity is 12 liters!).
- Available in sizes: XXS to L
- Capacity: 5L in gear; two 500mL flasks included; compatible with 1.5L reservoir (not included)
Best for Safety: Nathan Hypernight Quickstart 2.0 (4L)
If you run during early mornings or later at night, visibility is key for your safety. Mateo recommends the Nathan Hypernight Quickstart vest, which has a reflective design on the back and the front so you can’t be missed. “It’s pretty lightweight and minimal as far as vests go,” says Mateo, but it still allows for plenty of storage if you need to stash a layer or carry fuel. Plus, there are plenty of straps to get the fit just right.
- One size fits most
- Capacity: 4L in gear; includes 1.5L reservoir; front pocket fit bottles and flasks up to 22 fl. oz. (not included)
Best Size Inclusive Pack: Gregory Nano 18 H20 Plus Size
The Gregory Nano 18 H20 Plus Size is a size-inclusive pack that has all the functionality of the brand’s other day packs. You get a three-liter bladder that slips into a separate reservoir compartment, a top zippered pocket with a key clip, and other side stash pockets. There’s plenty of storage room in the 18L pack—plus, the padded shoulders straps and breathable back panel can help you stay cool and comfortable during any hikes.
- One size fits most: Comparable to 2X to 6X in apparel sizing
- Capacity: 18L in gear; includes 3L reservoir
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Best Waist Pack: REI Co-op Trail 5 Waist Pack
Fanny packs aren’t just for cute activewear outfits—they’re a favorite for hikers and mountain bikers, too. The REI Co-Op Trail 5 Waist Pack has a durable water repellent finish and a breathable, mesh back panel that wraps just slightly around to your hips. It also has a surprising capacity of just over five liters and fits two one-liter water bottles.
- One size fits most: Fits waists/hips up to 52 inches
- Capacity: 5.25L in gear; can hold two 1-liter water bottles (not included)
Best Belt: Camelbak Ultra Belt (17 oz.)
“I don't really like holding things in my hands when I run,” Mateo says. She’s tried larger belts, but her go-to is the Camelbak Ultra, which is made of a lightweight, breathable micromesh. This minimal option fits a 17-ounce flexible flask that sits close to your body, so it won’t bounce around too much. The belt has extra stretch pockets for fuel and snacks, plus a zipper compartment for other essentials. It’s also available in more than one size, which helps for finding the correct fit.
- Available in sizes: XS to L
- Capacity: 17-oz. Quick Stow flask included
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Best Handheld: Amphipod Hydraform Ergo-Lite
This water bottle is a good pick for a short jaunt in hot weather, and comes in various capacities. No matter the size, it will fit nicely in your hand, thanks to its secure, soft, and ergonomic grip. There’s also an integrated strap with a thumb lock, so you don’t actually have to grip it while you move.
- One size fits most
- Capacity: 10.5-, 16-, or 20-ounce bottles
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SELF does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional.
