Excellent review! I'm in love with this pack. The details are fantastic and love how it does not jostle at all. I've put in quite a few miles with it and plan on using it for a couple long adventure runs. It fits my frame great (slim-ish, 5'7"), but I can definitely understand your discomfort. I have yet to use it in very hot weather....so we'll see, but I have ran shirtless with it and did not experience any chaffing. Works great with UD's soft water bottles. My only issue is the placement of the two front pockets...I agree, super awkward with water bottles.
I do have this one and it does what it needs to do. I love the Lightweight-barely know it’s there feel, but it’s only great for short up to moderate distance trail runs/races, with just carrying small essentials without sacrificing weight and bulk. But I also recently got the Nike Kiger 3.0 update and while it has pretty much the same except now a zippered front pocket located in the front left replacing the bottle pocket of the this version in the video, it’s much better version with solving some of those little issues with the original.
Great review, as always. An ab made me choke on my coffee, I resemble that remark too. The price is staggering, though it's not out in the UK yet so I don't know where the price will sit. I'm using a Kalenji one from Decathlon, which is doing all it needs to just now. I may change once I up my mileage.
Hey GR, I am looking for a super lightweight pack and have been checking out your reviews and am wondering what you might recommend for me? I'm 5'11 170 with very broad shoulders and a large chest, so I am not built like one of these elites either. I do not race ultras but I occasionally like to go out in the mountains and drop 30 milers so bringing some essentials in case the weather turns or I do something stupid like fall into a river is a necessity. I'm looking for something ultra light - maybe the S-LAB Skin 5Set? I think the more minimalist versions (Sense/ultra) may not give me enough space to carry my shit. Does this sound like a solid pack or do you have any ideas as others I should consider before pulling the trigger? Previously I was using one of the small Camelbaks but that was way too much pack for me and the bounce was killing my gait.
Love your vids, Ginger! Please do a video on the Altra the One 2.5, or even better the new Altra Paradigm. I'm a fluffy 225 lb forefoot runner that's been using Distance III and they are light, but feel like I'm stepping on the edge of a thin book every time I land :( . I'm really eyeing the Altras for their zero drop and wide toe-box; I have paws for feet. Train.Race.Beer!
I have the lone peak 2.5s. I use Newton distance 4s for the road currently. I love the altras and am thinking of buying their road show now. They are that good.
I love this pack, and just raced the Dirty 30 50K in it. Totally love the stash pockets along the back. I wish you mentioned the tiny little bladder hose clip along the front right side, but then again maybe you haven't used this pack with a bladder yet? It's one of those awesome little details. There's also a rescue whistle on there which is kinda cool. I didn't mind the placement of the small zipper pockets up front, but I use 500 ml UD soft flasks which sit pretty low in those pockets. Also haven't had any issues with fit, but I have definitely noticed it being HOT HOT HOT which is tough in Colorado right now.
Great feedback! The clip in the front is pretty standard for hydration packs (well, prob half of what I've reviewed), same with the whistle. That being said, I did NOT run with softflasks up front so I can see how that'd free up some of those pockets. Hard bottles make their location a prob.
Ah okay makes sense. My last pack was the Nathan Firecatcher which is super minimal and didn't have any of the fancy clips and whistles, so this is a big upgrade.
can anyone suggest me a good but not so expensive hydration pack? I'm training for my first ultra 50miles. I haven't used one till now but I need one so badly.
Thoughts on best vest to buy if only getting one, Ethan? with a view to ultras/mountain events/Bob Graham round etc SLab 12, inov8 Ultra 10 and UD AK 3.0 etc all spring to mind. Thanks and can't wait for the WS100 films!...
Since you know so many people in the community too Ethan, including Gary Robbins and a few athletes pacing him and others too I figured I'd ask. Not to mention trusting your in depth and real world reviews!
is there anything like this for more affordable prices, like 20 to 50 bucks? I'm obviously not expecting high quality, but I'm just looking for something like this that could hold water, keys, phone, you get the idea. I just don't want to spend 180 on something like this lol
The pack supposedly fits a hydration pouch in the big pocket on the back, but I couldn’t find a matching nike pouch. Maybe I’m gonna buy a different brand bladder that fits. Anyways, I bought it because I like Nike stuff. I paid $65 on eBay. Check Mercari or eBay.
I can look past the fit, especially if it's close. But the price is a non-starter. There are plenty of capable packs for much less. Form follows function. I really like the looks, but I'll wait until v2.
Try the Compressport Ultrun 140 ... well that pack basically solves every problem Salomon, Nike, Raidlite, etc. throws at you. /cheerio don't forget your hops daily ;)
The pack looks awesome but I'm a lot bigger of a guy than you Ethan so there's no way that will fit me. Thank you for the awesome gear review as always.
I raced a couple of road marathons (amsterdam, berlin) in this pack so i could skip waterstations. Worked well for me. Probably gonna use it for NYC too this fall. You could also look into the Naked running band if you’re looking for a lightweight option for road races. I use that one for half marathons. 👍
I'm a thin guy (6'5", 170), and I think the bottom sternum strap is a bit too tight (wearing a size large), even when loosened all the way. I've thought about cutting it, but the thought of permanently defacing a $185 pack makes me cringe. Making the bottom strap (a) flexible, or (b) removable would be a simple but huge improvement (side note--the top strap on my vest is elastic). One other thing I disliked is the elastic band around the bottom of the bottle pockets, which makes it very hard to jam a bottle all the way down into the pocket. They seem to stay put if you don't jam them in there, but it still worries me (notice that in her UTMB report, Nike runner Sally McRae mentions her bottle falling out right at the start of the race). Maybe this wasn't an issue for the Ginger Runner? Other than those two issues, the pack is fantastic. I love that the bottles sit lower than on most packs--under the ribs instead of on top of them. To me, that seems like the obvious place for bottles to sit if you don't want them to bounce (and it's true--they don't bounce). As someone who can't manage to reach the kangaroo pocket on a Salomon vest, I think the location of Nike's rear stash pocket is fantastic and easy to access on the run. And in a world where most so-called smartphone pockets barely fit an iPhone 5, the waterproof pocket is fantastic--accessible on the run, and it will probably fit any phone on the market, even something like a Samsung Note. But that price and that bottom strap ...
Yup, all of this. My top strap is not elastic - just double checked! JEALOUS! And YES on the bottle placement riding just a bit lower on my ribs which was awesome. I did have trouble with the double layer of mesh at the bottom of the bottle pockets keeping the bottles from going all the way in. That began to break in a bit more (and when I became aware of what was happening, I now double check). A big water resistant back pocket is HUGE.
Crazy--I just looked at my vest again, and the top strap *isn't* elastic--it's just positioned in a way that seems to pull directly on the stretchy panels on the side, so I thought it was. I also realized that you can just slide the bottom strap up until it's right under the top strap. It's not as good a solution as an elastic strap would have been, but in my opinion it's much better than cutting the strap off or running with it undone.
Dude, I own all sizes (bought others I did not have) for testing purposes. Nope. All suffer same fate. My chest size puts me in the M according to their own spec-sheet.
***** but they really don't. How many Under Armour runners have you owned? I'm not biased. I've owned Nike, adidas, brooks, asics, under armour, saucony, and mizuno. They perform. Period. For what reason do you claim that they suck?
all jokes aside, what's a good way to track your runs? because I use the Nike app on my phone but I hate holding my phone throughout the whole run. any suggestions on this, please.
+HOEE_SAYy I just watched a vid on a pair of shoes that can track your run, but I don't remember what they're called. but they tracked your run and pace and you could bring it up on your phone afterwards. there's also watches that do the same kind of thing.
Excellent review! I'm in love with this pack. The details are fantastic and love how it does not jostle at all. I've put in quite a few miles with it and plan on using it for a couple long adventure runs. It fits my frame great (slim-ish, 5'7"), but I can definitely understand your discomfort. I have yet to use it in very hot weather....so we'll see, but I have ran shirtless with it and did not experience any chaffing. Works great with UD's soft water bottles. My only issue is the placement of the two front pockets...I agree, super awkward with water bottles.
You look great with that mighty ultra trail beard :D Just wanted to say that, happy weekend!
I do have this one and it does what it needs to do. I love the Lightweight-barely know it’s there feel, but it’s only great for short up to moderate distance trail runs/races, with just carrying small essentials without sacrificing weight and bulk. But I also recently got the Nike Kiger 3.0 update and while it has pretty much the same except now a zippered front pocket located in the front left replacing the bottle pocket of the this version in the video, it’s much better version with solving some of those little issues with the original.
Bought one today at Marshall’s for $20 hell yeah
Damn - I was so excited seeing that Nike made one - I love Nike, but the price is crazy. Great review. thanks
I'd like to see a review of the UD SJ FKT Pack
Great review, as always. An ab made me choke on my coffee, I resemble that remark too.
The price is staggering, though it's not out in the UK yet so I don't know where the price will sit. I'm using a Kalenji one from Decathlon, which is doing all it needs to just now. I may change once I up my mileage.
How about some running jacket/windbreaker /pullover reviews for the foul, cold months ahead?
I love this pack !! Amazon has them for $100 !!
whats the sizing looking like? my boys got a small for sale but i haven't got a chance to try it on
good review can you do one on the Under Armour UA Trail Hydration Pack
Really liked the guest review by Gary Robbins. :)
LOL
Fantastic review! Covered it well 👌
Where could I purchase this from?
Hey Ethan (and anyone else) any suggestions on a pack that can carry an slr camera without too much bouncing?
Given that you have to buy the bladder aftermarket, what bladder have you all found fits this vest best?
Hey GR, I am looking for a super lightweight pack and have been checking out your reviews and am wondering what you might recommend for me? I'm 5'11 170 with very broad shoulders and a large chest, so I am not built like one of these elites either. I do not race ultras but I occasionally like to go out in the mountains and drop 30 milers so bringing some essentials in case the weather turns or I do something stupid like fall into a river is a necessity. I'm looking for something ultra light - maybe the S-LAB Skin 5Set? I think the more minimalist versions (Sense/ultra) may not give me enough space to carry my shit. Does this sound like a solid pack or do you have any ideas as others I should consider before pulling the trigger? Previously I was using one of the small Camelbaks but that was way too much pack for me and the bounce was killing my gait.
Will you do a garmin 735XT review? I know you don't do very many watch review but I'm in the market for a new gps watch.
I know you liked the Nike zoom air pegasus 32, so when are you going to do a review on the Nike Zoom air pegasus 33?
Love your vids, Ginger! Please do a video on the Altra the One 2.5, or even better the new Altra Paradigm. I'm a fluffy 225 lb forefoot runner that's been using Distance III and they are light, but feel like I'm stepping on the edge of a thin book every time I land :( . I'm really eyeing the Altras for their zero drop and wide toe-box; I have paws for feet. Train.Race.Beer!
I have the lone peak 2.5s. I use Newton distance 4s for the road currently. I love the altras and am thinking of buying their road show now. They are that good.
The pack online is pictured with little bottles it doesn’t come with them included ?
I love this pack, and just raced the Dirty 30 50K in it. Totally love the stash pockets along the back. I wish you mentioned the tiny little bladder hose clip along the front right side, but then again maybe you haven't used this pack with a bladder yet? It's one of those awesome little details. There's also a rescue whistle on there which is kinda cool. I didn't mind the placement of the small zipper pockets up front, but I use 500 ml UD soft flasks which sit pretty low in those pockets. Also haven't had any issues with fit, but I have definitely noticed it being HOT HOT HOT which is tough in Colorado right now.
Great feedback! The clip in the front is pretty standard for hydration packs (well, prob half of what I've reviewed), same with the whistle. That being said, I did NOT run with softflasks up front so I can see how that'd free up some of those pockets. Hard bottles make their location a prob.
Ah okay makes sense. My last pack was the Nathan Firecatcher which is super minimal and didn't have any of the fancy clips and whistles, so this is a big upgrade.
I'm a slim guy, and I really like Kiger Vest. The fit is perfect for me. I also brought UD SJ 3.0, Just can't adjust it to my body.
can anyone suggest me a good but not so expensive hydration pack? I'm training for my first ultra 50miles. I haven't used one till now but I need one so badly.
Thoughts on best vest to buy if only getting one, Ethan? with a view to ultras/mountain events/Bob Graham round etc
SLab 12, inov8 Ultra 10 and UD AK 3.0 etc all spring to mind. Thanks and can't wait for the WS100 films!...
Since you know so many people in the community too Ethan, including Gary Robbins and a few athletes pacing him and others too I figured I'd ask. Not to mention trusting your in depth and real world reviews!
I got the large and I can hardly buckle it so I got the XL and its to big lol. I was looking forward to this vest 😕 sucks
is there anything like this for more affordable prices, like 20 to 50 bucks? I'm obviously not expecting high quality, but I'm just looking for something like this that could hold water, keys, phone, you get the idea. I just don't want to spend 180 on something like this lol
Thanks for this review. I too am blessed with a hot bod that this wouldn’t work well for.
Can u review Aonijie 5L hydration vest?
makes the Salomon skin sense look like a bargain... which after buying one I'd happily pay even more for.
Any thoughts on the new Nike Running Trail Vest?
Waiting for some Ultraspire vests reviews!
The PRICE made me turn around. "No thank you". But THANKS for the review Ethan! Been waiting for a good one to pop up.
By the way, there are a lot of these available (new) for under $100 on ebay right now. No idea why.
You should check out the Brooks Pure Grit 5!
hey buddy, what size did you wear in this video? M or L?
Aww, I thought this said Tiger Hyrdration Vest; the follow up to the Tiggerdrip.
Classic old hydration vest!
In my opinion, Salomon will always be king in this market.
Holy Jumpcut Batman
The pack supposedly fits a hydration pouch in the big pocket on the back, but I couldn’t find a matching nike pouch. Maybe I’m gonna buy a different brand bladder that fits.
Anyways, I bought it because I like Nike stuff.
I paid $65 on eBay. Check Mercari or eBay.
I'll stay with my trusty Salomon. But nice review as always ;-)
I can look past the fit, especially if it's close. But the price is a non-starter. There are plenty of capable packs for much less. Form follows function. I really like the looks, but I'll wait until v2.
Try the Compressport Ultrun 140 ... well that pack basically solves every problem Salomon, Nike, Raidlite, etc. throws at you.
/cheerio don't forget your hops daily ;)
thank you!
I want a pack with a huge shark fin on it.
The pack looks awesome but I'm a lot bigger of a guy than you Ethan so there's no way that will fit me. Thank you for the awesome gear review as always.
holy gesh thats expensive... but nike does makes good quality products that last. their trail line has been excellent
I gave it a like...*whispers "you're welcome"*
"...an ab." LOL
$185 ???? That is too much. Looking for under $100 hydration packs.
Camelbak circuit. Under a 100 bucks and lifetime warranty
Lol, I have one from Decathlon for 40 bucks and it's decent.
Curious if anyone has used this vest during a non-trail run?! Please let me know. Thank you runners and runnerettes
I raced a couple of road marathons (amsterdam, berlin) in this pack so i could skip waterstations. Worked well for me. Probably gonna use it for NYC too this fall.
You could also look into the Naked running band if you’re looking for a lightweight option for road races. I use that one for half marathons. 👍
I'm a thin guy (6'5", 170), and I think the bottom sternum strap is a bit too tight (wearing a size large), even when loosened all the way. I've thought about cutting it, but the thought of permanently defacing a $185 pack makes me cringe. Making the bottom strap (a) flexible, or (b) removable would be a simple but huge improvement (side note--the top strap on my vest is elastic). One other thing I disliked is the elastic band around the bottom of the bottle pockets, which makes it very hard to jam a bottle all the way down into the pocket. They seem to stay put if you don't jam them in there, but it still worries me (notice that in her UTMB report, Nike runner Sally McRae mentions her bottle falling out right at the start of the race). Maybe this wasn't an issue for the Ginger Runner?
Other than those two issues, the pack is fantastic. I love that the bottles sit lower than on most packs--under the ribs instead of on top of them. To me, that seems like the obvious place for bottles to sit if you don't want them to bounce (and it's true--they don't bounce). As someone who can't manage to reach the kangaroo pocket on a Salomon vest, I think the location of Nike's rear stash pocket is fantastic and easy to access on the run. And in a world where most so-called smartphone pockets barely fit an iPhone 5, the waterproof pocket is fantastic--accessible on the run, and it will probably fit any phone on the market, even something like a Samsung Note.
But that price and that bottom strap ...
Yup, all of this. My top strap is not elastic - just double checked! JEALOUS! And YES on the bottle placement riding just a bit lower on my ribs which was awesome. I did have trouble with the double layer of mesh at the bottom of the bottle pockets keeping the bottles from going all the way in. That began to break in a bit more (and when I became aware of what was happening, I now double check). A big water resistant back pocket is HUGE.
Crazy--I just looked at my vest again, and the top strap *isn't* elastic--it's just positioned in a way that seems to pull directly on the stretchy panels on the side, so I thought it was. I also realized that you can just slide the bottom strap up until it's right under the top strap. It's not as good a solution as an elastic strap would have been, but in my opinion it's much better than cutting the strap off or running with it undone.
I got one at ross for $25.. 2018
Durable.. yeah but just curious how the hell you would manage to destroy a running backpack? xD
Overprice w/o a bottle or a hydration bladder.
You shouldn't be surprised by something that's coming from Nike.
:D
hahahaha! An ab.
I think I might be overly round in the middle to fit it comfortably. Definitely no bottom strap for me. I have not found a good vest to fit a fat guy.
Ginger Runner. You need the XL size brother. I can tell by looking at you. You are holding the large.
Dude, I own all sizes (bought others I did not have) for testing purposes. Nope. All suffer same fate. My chest size puts me in the M according to their own spec-sheet.
so did you go for the L or the M?
We ask for it and you do it? Do an Under Armour shoe then. They have way too many good runners to just ignore them.
under armor shoes suck lmao
***** but they really don't. How many Under Armour runners have you owned? I'm not biased. I've owned Nike, adidas, brooks, asics, under armour, saucony, and mizuno. They perform. Period. For what reason do you claim that they suck?
anything Salomon > this. No bottles or bladder for $185?!?!?!
185 bucks is insane. I'm not buying something for more than a Salomon or UD vest when (imo) those are better, more versatile packs.
Eh... I'm going to stick with my Ultimate Direction pack for now.
me looking at this in 2021 after buying it for $20 at marshalls
what he didnt mention was the guaranteed 10-15 lbs youll lose if you buy this. it is so expensive that you have no choice but to skip meals
Surely I am not the only one who thinks this pack looks a LOT like the Salomon pack...
Didn't Milla Jovovich wear that vest in The Fifth Element? She should have chosen an Ultimate Direction vest instead, just for sheer comfort.
On eBay for as low as $60 now lol
you gonna give me this or nahhh
all jokes aside, what's a good way to track your runs?
because I use the Nike app on my phone but I hate holding my phone throughout the whole run. any suggestions on this, please.
+HOEE_SAYy I just watched a vid on a pair of shoes that can track your run, but I don't remember what they're called. but they tracked your run and pace and you could bring it up on your phone afterwards. there's also watches that do the same kind of thing.
price is too high
Wtf??? $185?
for that price you do not get bottles or bladder!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
price 👎
Why TF are you talking so fast? Calm down
All Nike products are garbage in my opinion. Narrow shoes, dry quick shorts don't actually dry quick, and over priced. Screw Nike