I found this item at an REI used gear sale about 6-plus years ago; basically new but for a broken zipper ($1.80...deal of the century). Years later and I have finally fixed the broken zipper issue with some Velcro. I'm amused by the fact that I'm using this old review to help me navigate the pockets etc. Gotta love Ginger Runner reviews! :)
I picked one of these up a couple of months ago, it's awesome! Every time I empty it out or try to pack it differently, I find different pockets or place to clip things. No bouncing, no chafing, fits nice and snug, and plenty of room for runs that you have access to water and food. The only issue is with the soft flasks, sometimes they don't want to go into the front pockets, they bunch up and don't want to get pushed down because the bottoms of the flasks get stuck on the stretchy material of the front pockets. Otherwise, awesome.
Awesome review -- I've owned this pack for two running seasons and my pros and cons are pretty much in-line. I made this investment in this pack, but I think it really shines and while I think a lot of companies blow some R&D smoke, you can tell immediately that Salomon put a lot of thought and testing into this pack. It rides incredibly well, and like you, I can only complain how those plastic rails sometimes dig into my clavicles/collar bones. Other than that, rides like a dream. Absolutely ridiculous that this does not come with a bladder at $160. Crazy. Insane. Ludicrous. LOVE all the storage pockets and accessibility and the small add-ons like the emergency blanket and whistle. Thanks again for the awesome review -- it does this pack justice.
I used bottles instead of the flasks in a recent 50mi race and it was just fine for me. Had no trouble getting them in and out. This vest is supposed to be minimal for races with aid stations. I personally barely eat anything from aid stations except water and electrolytes from Hammer if they have it simply because is full of junk food and I carry everything I need with me. With that said I've also done self sufficient adventures of up to 100k and it provides still the space and practicality to endure. This vest is just stunningly great. I don't have one single complaint about it.
Thanks for the review, currently in the market for one and have found out by the local Salomon store these are in such high demand they sold out across Canada.
Great review Ethan. When this pack was first introduced I heard of some QC issues that had me concerned but because of your recommendations I finally decided to take the plunge and purchase the S-Lab Hydro 5. I have been using it regularly for the past month for both trail running and xc skiing. My experience so far is that it is worth every cent of the $160 price tag. Love the pack with its "stuff and go" capabilities and the soft-flask.
I have the 12lt version an am surprised looking at the video. Purchased 2 years ago and is better than what is in the video - bladder is included, hard flasks get smoothly to the front pockets, the pockets do have draw cord included. But my model didnt come with soft flasks. I use the extra 7lt for storage of jumper, forever raincoat, etc. Yes, it is expensive, but it is the best of breed.
I have the previous version, it works great, only thing I dont like is the bladder system. It is a pain to refill so not race friendly, thus I have to carry a hand held since the pockets barely fit a bottle. I am getting an UD SJ Race Vest to fill that need for easy bottle access and nutrition space. If I ever need a bladder for stretch legs or exploring, it is compatible as well. Salomon is doing it right, but I think all their products are a bit out of my price range and more design for elites that get full use out of their gear.
The Mountain Hardware Race Vest/Packs are also very good and comfortable for the price and weight. Only 1 bottle up front, and no reservoir insulation, but you get a 5.7/10 oz pack for only $60/75. A little less refined in terms of materials, but great for the price.
Oh and about the leaking soft flasks, that was a problem with the 1st version (with the all white valves). They fixed that in the new version (white valves with black inside).
Love this vest but its better then ultimate because the bottles dont even weigh an ounce and they collapse when get smaller and u can tuck away. I like ultimate direction but plastic weighs alot more. Hey this puppy is expensive but if you are a serious runner why not!
Used this pack all season. Going into the Trans Alpine run at the end of the month with this pack. Still trying to find out how to attach trekking poles to this bad boy.. seems to have a dedicated strapping device for poles, but can't seem to figure it out. Other than that, this pack is the best one I have ever worn.
Ethan, I may have missed it, but I can't seem to find any reviews on the updated Salomon packs. Any quick opinions or warnings on the newer models? Thank you for all the free content, you got me into ultrarunning!
Loved your review. Informative and entertaining. Could you show how to install the bladder? Does it hook onto anything or does one just drop it in? Thank you
To answer my own question: Yes, you can use a 2L bladder, but it's best to not fill it more than 3/4 of the way up (1.75 L), and then fold the top over and down, away from your body. I'm specifically using the Hydrapak bladder from the Nathan HPL 2.0 vest. It might not work with a different type of bladder. But for the one I have, you just need to stuff the bladder down into the sleeve first before filling. The only problem I have now is that the hose for my bladder is routed upward instead of down (or sideways), so that can be a bit of a pain. I'll buy the Salomon 1.5L soft bladder when they are back in stock, just to get the proper routing of the hose. And yes, it's best to drink from the soft flasks just like the Ginger does in this video. Quick, easy, and oh so satisfying. :)
The old s-lab 5 set appears to have come with a bladder. Whyboh why did they change. Loved the review. How much storage in the main pocket in back is there if the bladder was in there. Trying to find a good pack for a rim2rim2rim in the fall, but can be used for long family hikes also. Considering the SJ ultra but only 2x 20oz is not much capacity.
Great review - I love this pack too. Which bladder have you found works best with it? So far I've just been using the flasks. Tried my 2l Camelbak and that didn't work...
***** Thanks I didn't realise there was that hole! Another Question, My soft flask bounces As you run fast, and when they have like 75% of water, they bend, and start to have some licking, does it happen to you? Do you have a way to solve it? Thanks!
Hey GR - Great review! Thanks for putting your dislikes in there! I have been looking at this pack for a while and think it might be the right fit for me. I am starting to run 13.1 trail races and have been looking for a pack that is versatile enough to train in as well. I was wondering, would you recommend this vest over the Salomon Skin PRO 3 Set that DOES have a bladder? My training doesn't always require the bladder, but if both have the option, and both are similar weight, are there any real advantages to the S-Lab?
Great review GR!! I just started using this hydro vest and after my first run got major chafing on my collar bone :( Other than that, I love the vest. Anyone else have a similar experience? Any suggestions on how to get over the chafing? Doing my first ultra next weekend and really want to use the vest without having to worry about the chafing!! I’m thinking sweat-proof band aids?!?!
It is expensive, but think of it this way: You can spend $120 or so on shoes that will last a season or two, or you can spend $160 on a pack that you'll use for years and years.
Hello, great review! I've owned the 5l and 12l for over a year as well as older Salomon packs, and there's a thing that annoys me: with all their gear they use a metal for the zippers that oxides very easily. I've left one in my garage for the winter and the zipper was entirely rusted, unable to open/close. None of my other packs has this pb, very specific to Salomon. Any idea on how to prevent this? (I dry them after each run and keep them in a dry & heated room but there may be another way).
I'm caught in between the M/L and XL. Salomon's recommended sizing is buy the same vest as your t-shirt size. I went with the M/L but after getting it I'm not so sure. It does't fit terrible, I just feel the XL may fit better. I'm 5'10, 170lbs, with a 44" chest..... any recommendations?
Ethan, my teacher! I watched this review and I liked it a lot, but here in Brazil I didn't find to buy. Then I'll buy at Amazon which has international shipping. My doubt is about the size because I'm going to buy without the possibility to experience before. Watching your videos I noticed that we have basically the same stature. What size do you wear?
Did you get one? I have the same question. And trying to find it in Greece so I won't pay for shipping as well. I'm 1,82cm, about half an inch shy of 6 feet, and about the same built as Ethan. Maybe a bit more bulky, but I'm working on it (hehehe). I'd guess he's using the L...?
irony78 Hello, I bought a size M because I read in another review that if you get a little small is still good, but if you get a big you can't use because it picks up the neck. I received from Amazon a size M and it was perfect. The price I paid: Item(s) Subtotal: $119.78 Shipping & Handling (to Brasil): $30.00
Hey ginger I was wondering if the 26oz bottle from Ultimate Direction fits better on this vest. This bottle looks like is a bit thinner than the regular 20oz. What do you think?
Great review! I really like want to get one of these. Do you think the back storage could store a regular sized weather proof jacket (I know that really depends on the jacket size, I'll try to find one I can cram in there pretty small) ? I'm doing a few races coming up that require you carry certain gear such as jackets, headlamps, etc. the entire race. Thanks!
I really like the review of this pack and am tempted to buy one but there are two things holding me back. (1) I don't like soft flasks - I would prefer are more rigid bottle that doesn't flop over as it empties. (2) What's with the tiny opening of the flask?! How the hell am i supposed to get ice in there on a hot summer day? My understanding is that those bottle pockets are rather narrow so you can't fit a UD bottle in there if you wanted to. Does any one else have these concerns and how have you addressed them?
Paul Encarnación Please see any of my recent race videos or more current reviews of the new models. I use and have used UD bottles with no problems for years.
Which one will you recon if you are running 100km in a tropical jungle with some rainfall? The salomon hydro 12 or UD PB 2.0? Seems like salomon is not water resistant at all.
Might seem stupid, I know... but can someone give a hit on how to put the soft blader on the back and pass the tube through the backpack and under the arm? Thanks!
Price just keeps ruining it for this great SALOMON Gears. Wish i could kick myself in the head and get confused enough to buy one. But i think the ULTIMATE DIRECTION SJ ULTRA VEST can match up to this one when it comes to function plus beats the price.. :-)
Could somone share the "sweat on the back" experience on this pack? I am wondering how much hotter it is with the pack on youre back. And awesome reviews, just like watching a tv show ;o)
Looks like an overall almost perfect product. It even LOOKS comfy & light. They've probably spent a lot of time on developing this, and the use of a mix of light and stretchy materials might justify the higher price. But the bladder doesn't even come included at that price ? Boooo :-(
I tested the Nathan Firecatcher and the inov-8 race ultra vest. They are both a little small for me. (The athletes you can see wearing it on youtube must be dwarfs :-) ) How does the Salomon in XL fit for larger guys? (6.13ft.)
Kinda late but I'm 6'1" as well. I just brought the XL size and took it on a 16 mile trial today. Fits me just fine. I was kinda skeptic at 1st, because for an XL, it still looked pretty small. I brought a 2Liter Platypus bladder and made it work(without the bladder sleeve it provided). I just wore a t-shirt underneath and my run was smooth. Really no complaints from me. As Ginger said, this vest AWESOME!
I'm looking at the s-lab 12. I'm assuming the shape of the pack is the same. If so, do you think a 2 liter bladder would fit if I didn't use the insulation sleeve?
Hi! I have a question. Is there any benefit to purchasing the specific bladder sold by Solomon. Aside from it fitting the provided sleeve. Can I use another bladder from platypus for example. If so, could I use a 2L instead of 1.5L Thank you for your help!
hi , have you seen and maybe had a chance to use the 5 or 12 vest 2015 version ive just seen then online now and was wondering if they were any good , i currently have the current 12 model , thanks.
Ah gotcha. Yeah, I think my arm has adapted to the stretch, haha. Sometimes, I use my opposite arm to reach around the back to grab items. 12 has more options though...
I see in your more recent race videos that you are using some other bottles besides the included soft flasks. I've tried fitting both Nathan and Camelbak 22 oz bottles in the holsters and they do not seem to work. Are you using any specific bottles?
cbrownie6305 I've mentioned it in a few vids, but I need 20oz for my liquid nutrition, calorie counts, oz of water intake, etc. The flasks handle 17oz-ish which skews my ratio.
***** I see, thanks! I ask because I have had some bouncing issues with the soft flasks just as Nicolas has indicated below. I also found that at half-full these guys like to play turtle and disappear into the bottom of the pouch - maybe I will try out some UD bottles. Thanks for the info!
Debating hard between the 5 and 12 set. Without physically handling them but based on appearance and dimensions, they seem so similar. Have you spent any time with the 12? Can you feel the 7 extra liters of storage? I'm looking for something minimal and the 5 seem to hit the spot but I also don't want to be able to pack some gear and don't want to kick myself if I get the 5 and it turns out the 12 has that much more space and doesn't feel much bulkier. Help?
Haven't worn the 12, but for longer days, bigger outtings, the 12 would be filled up more and able to handle more weight. The 5 is a perfect race-ready pack for me.
I had the 5L and exchanged it for the 12L. It's exactly the same vest except they've added extra pockets. Side zippered pockets are bigger and even more accessible. Also now has a large zippered pocket behind the open pocket in the back. The fit is exactly the same and I would definitely suggest the 12L as opposed to the 5L if you have only one vest.
+drtisbeter I've said this many times before, the points don't really matter (there's no percentages, no half points, no decimal system, etc). It's more about the likes/dislikes - use those when making your decision to purchase or not
Better not let your new fiance see the start of this video or she may change her mind dude. LOL. The vest seems a bit tight on you, is that how you like to wear it or was the sizing off?
Sizing is perfect. It's a minimal vest and only has what it needs. Looks tiny on me, but that's better than being too bulky or having too much useless material. Minimal = better in this case.
you mean the front holsters? I've had this pack for well over a year, washed countless times, raced & trained THOUSANDS of miles and not a single hole in any of the stretchy fabric ANYWHERE on this pack. That's some incredible durability.
I found this item at an REI used gear sale about 6-plus years ago; basically new but for a broken zipper ($1.80...deal of the century). Years later and I have finally fixed the broken zipper issue with some Velcro. I'm amused by the fact that I'm using this old review to help me navigate the pockets etc. Gotta love Ginger Runner reviews! :)
I picked one of these up a couple of months ago, it's awesome! Every time I empty it out or try to pack it differently, I find different pockets or place to clip things. No bouncing, no chafing, fits nice and snug, and plenty of room for runs that you have access to water and food. The only issue is with the soft flasks, sometimes they don't want to go into the front pockets, they bunch up and don't want to get pushed down because the bottoms of the flasks get stuck on the stretchy material of the front pockets. Otherwise, awesome.
Just bought a Salomon pack and looking forward to putting it through it paces. Thanks for helping me decide which one to get. Keep up the great work.
Awesome review -- I've owned this pack for two running seasons and my pros and cons are pretty much in-line. I made this investment in this pack, but I think it really shines and while I think a lot of companies blow some R&D smoke, you can tell immediately that Salomon put a lot of thought and testing into this pack. It rides incredibly well, and like you, I can only complain how those plastic rails sometimes dig into my clavicles/collar bones. Other than that, rides like a dream. Absolutely ridiculous that this does not come with a bladder at $160. Crazy. Insane. Ludicrous. LOVE all the storage pockets and accessibility and the small add-ons like the emergency blanket and whistle. Thanks again for the awesome review -- it does this pack justice.
Just ordered this vest at my local running shop. Can't wait for it to be delivered. Great and funny review as usual. Keep up the good work.
I used bottles instead of the flasks in a recent 50mi race and it was just fine for me. Had no trouble getting them in and out. This vest is supposed to be minimal for races with aid stations. I personally barely eat anything from aid stations except water and electrolytes from Hammer if they have it simply because is full of junk food and I carry everything I need with me. With that said I've also done self sufficient adventures of up to 100k and it provides still the space and practicality to endure. This vest is just stunningly great. I don't have one single complaint about it.
Thanks for the review, currently in the market for one and have found out by the local Salomon store these are in such high demand they sold out across Canada.
Great review Ethan. When this pack was first introduced I heard of some QC issues that had me concerned but because of your recommendations I finally decided to take the plunge and purchase the S-Lab Hydro 5. I have been using it regularly for the past month for both trail running and xc skiing. My experience so far is that it is worth every cent of the $160 price tag. Love the pack with its "stuff and go" capabilities and the soft-flask.
I have the 12lt version an am surprised looking at the video. Purchased 2 years ago and is better than what is in the video - bladder is included, hard flasks get smoothly to the front pockets, the pockets do have draw cord included. But my model didnt come with soft flasks. I use the extra 7lt for storage of jumper, forever raincoat, etc. Yes, it is expensive, but it is the best of breed.
Can't wait to get and use this pack. I've been lying in wait for deals online and finally came across a M/L from a seller on Amazon for $120.
Thanks. I just bought the S Lab 2 liter, so this will have to be a future purchase.
I am new to running and am so happy I found your channel!! Love your videos!! So fun to watch and I learn so much!! Thank you!
Just bought it!! thanks Ginger Runner you rock.
Your reviews are great and on point. Love it, glad I subscribed. Cant wait to watch more before I buy.
Great review! I have the first version of this and enjoy it quite a bit! Might have to get this one! Congrats on the engagement by the way!!
I have the previous version, it works great, only thing I dont like is the bladder system. It is a pain to refill so not race friendly, thus I have to carry a hand held since the pockets barely fit a bottle. I am getting an UD SJ Race Vest to fill that need for easy bottle access and nutrition space. If I ever need a bladder for stretch legs or exploring, it is compatible as well.
Salomon is doing it right, but I think all their products are a bit out of my price range and more design for elites that get full use out of their gear.
The Mountain Hardware Race Vest/Packs are also very good and comfortable for the price and weight. Only 1 bottle up front, and no reservoir insulation, but you get a 5.7/10 oz pack for only $60/75. A little less refined in terms of materials, but great for the price.
yes, still need to try one of theirs. See them tons out on the trails
dang it... another purchase I wasn't expecting to make today... haha
Thanks for the help and awesome review! Made the decision and purchase an easy one, pricy but worth it.
Best vest I've tried yet!
Oh and about the leaking soft flasks, that was a problem with the 1st version (with the all white valves). They fixed that in the new version (white valves with black inside).
All about the inov8 race ultra vest for me, similar beast but a little more stripped down.
Love this vest but its better then ultimate because the bottles dont even weigh an ounce and they collapse when get smaller and u can tuck away. I like ultimate direction but plastic weighs alot more. Hey this puppy is expensive but if you are a serious runner why not!
Nailed it.
Used this pack all season. Going into the Trans Alpine run at the end of the month with this pack. Still trying to find out how to attach trekking poles to this bad boy.. seems to have a dedicated strapping device for poles, but can't seem to figure it out. Other than that, this pack is the best one I have ever worn.
pole handles in the back pouch, spikes through the pole cord along the top. cinch it down tight on the right shoulder contact point. easy.
Great review!! Buying it now. Thanks!!
Gd review. Regarding the 12.....it is much bigger and would suit you for longer runs such as UTMB. The new 5 would be too small.
Jon
Looks like a really nice product and as much as I wouldn't mind having one, at $160 I am leaning towards the SJ ultra vest at $99.
I still have to try the SJ vest. Only have used the AK.
when you do, please do a review. I'd like to hear your point of view and the perspective when comparing the two.
This product is good. Good design, good material. I like it.
Ken
Yes...I like hydration vests...
Great review. I even run that far yet and I want one!
Ethan, I may have missed it, but I can't seem to find any reviews on the updated Salomon packs. Any quick opinions or warnings on the newer models? Thank you for all the free content, you got me into ultrarunning!
Loved your review. Informative and entertaining. Could you show how to install the bladder? Does it hook onto anything or does one just drop it in? Thank you
To answer my own question: Yes, you can use a 2L bladder, but it's best to not fill it more than 3/4 of the way up (1.75 L), and then fold the top over and down, away from your body. I'm specifically using the Hydrapak bladder from the Nathan HPL 2.0 vest. It might not work with a different type of bladder. But for the one I have, you just need to stuff the bladder down into the sleeve first before filling. The only problem I have now is that the hose for my bladder is routed upward instead of down (or sideways), so that can be a bit of a pain. I'll buy the Salomon 1.5L soft bladder when they are back in stock, just to get the proper routing of the hose. And yes, it's best to drink from the soft flasks just like the Ginger does in this video. Quick, easy, and oh so satisfying. :)
Found the review - great, will get the vest!
The old s-lab 5 set appears to have come with a bladder. Whyboh why did they change. Loved the review. How much storage in the main pocket in back is there if the bladder was in there. Trying to find a good pack for a rim2rim2rim in the fall, but can be used for long family hikes also. Considering the SJ ultra but only 2x 20oz is not much capacity.
Great review - I love this pack too. Which bladder have you found works best with it? So far I've just been using the flasks. Tried my 2l Camelbak and that didn't work...
Hello, I Have this one, and is AWESOME! Perfect for me, But from where you pass the Bladder "Cord" to drink, so you have it in a comfortable way?
through the hole in the bottom of the back, out through the back pocket and up under my right arm. Easy.
***** Thanks I didn't realise there was that hole! Another Question, My soft flask bounces As you run fast, and when they have like 75% of water, they bend, and start to have some licking, does it happen to you? Do you have a way to solve it? Thanks!
wish I would have bought this before I bought the Ultimate Direction AK Vest...
Hey GR - Great review! Thanks for putting your dislikes in there! I have been looking at this pack for a while and think it might be the right fit for me. I am starting to run 13.1 trail races and have been looking for a pack that is versatile enough to train in as well. I was wondering, would you recommend this vest over the Salomon Skin PRO 3 Set that DOES have a bladder? My training doesn't always require the bladder, but if both have the option, and both are similar weight, are there any real advantages to the S-Lab?
Great review GR!! I just started using this hydro vest and after my first run got major chafing on my collar bone :( Other than that, I love the vest. Anyone else have a similar experience? Any suggestions on how to get over the chafing? Doing my first ultra next weekend and really want to use the vest without having to worry about the chafing!! I’m thinking sweat-proof band aids?!?!
It is expensive, but think of it this way: You can spend $120 or so on shoes that will last a season or two, or you can spend $160 on a pack that you'll use for years and years.
BUYING
Hello, great review! I've owned the 5l and 12l for over a year as well as older Salomon packs, and there's a thing that annoys me: with all their gear they use a metal for the zippers that oxides very easily. I've left one in my garage for the winter and the zipper was entirely rusted, unable to open/close. None of my other packs has this pb, very specific to Salomon. Any idea on how to prevent this? (I dry them after each run and keep them in a dry & heated room but there may be another way).
congrats!
I love the pack, but totally confused with the 4D pole holding system....
Funny! funny! funny! great review!
I'm caught in between the M/L and XL. Salomon's recommended sizing is buy the same vest as your t-shirt size. I went with the M/L but after getting it I'm not so sure. It does't fit terrible, I just feel the XL may fit better. I'm 5'10, 170lbs, with a 44" chest..... any recommendations?
Scott, I'm 5'11" 175 with a 43" chest and just bought the xl, and it fits great. Running my first 50k with it this weekend in Fort Worth.
Thanks for the help. I ordered the XL.
Ethan, my teacher!
I watched this review and I liked it a lot, but here in Brazil I didn't find to buy. Then I'll buy at Amazon which has international shipping.
My doubt is about the size because I'm going to buy without the possibility to experience before.
Watching your videos I noticed that we have basically the same stature.
What size do you wear?
Did you get one?
I have the same question. And trying to find it in Greece so I won't pay for shipping as well.
I'm 1,82cm, about half an inch shy of 6 feet, and about the same built as Ethan. Maybe a bit more bulky, but I'm working on it (hehehe).
I'd guess he's using the L...?
irony78 Hello, I bought a size M because I read in another review that if you get a little small is still good, but if you get a big you can't use because it picks up the neck.
I received from Amazon a size M and it was perfect.
The price I paid:
Item(s) Subtotal: $119.78
Shipping & Handling (to Brasil): $30.00
Hey ginger I was wondering if the 26oz bottle from Ultimate Direction fits better on this vest. This bottle looks like is a bit thinner than the regular 20oz. What do you think?
Great review! I really like want to get one of these. Do you think the back storage could store a regular sized weather proof jacket (I know that really depends on the jacket size, I'll try to find one I can cram in there pretty small) ? I'm doing a few races coming up that require you carry certain gear such as jackets, headlamps, etc. the entire race. Thanks!
definitely. if not in the back pack area, then in the stretchy kangaroo pouch.
I really like the review of this pack and am tempted to buy one but there are two things holding me back. (1) I don't like soft flasks - I would prefer are more rigid bottle that doesn't flop over as it empties. (2) What's with the tiny opening of the flask?! How the hell am i supposed to get ice in there on a hot summer day? My understanding is that those bottle pockets are rather narrow so you can't fit a UD bottle in there if you wanted to. Does any one else have these concerns and how have you addressed them?
Paul Encarnación Please see any of my recent race videos or more current reviews of the new models. I use and have used UD bottles with no problems for years.
For sucking....nailed it. LMAO! That's great stuff.
Which one will you recon if you are running 100km in a tropical jungle with some rainfall? The salomon hydro 12 or UD PB 2.0? Seems like salomon is not water resistant at all.
Awesome man what's you're next idea?:)
The label on this pack indicates "Hand Wash Only," I'm wandering if anyone had run this through a machine instead? Hand washing sucks. Thanks!
I just bought this pack. If you use the UD water bottles in the pack will it stretch the materials so you can use the soft flasks?
Hey buddy, this one you are reviewing versus the past edition ?
Might seem stupid, I know... but can someone give a hit on how to put the soft blader on the back and pass the tube through the backpack and under the arm? Thanks!
Price just keeps ruining it for this great SALOMON Gears. Wish i could kick myself in the head and get confused enough to buy one. But i think the ULTIMATE DIRECTION SJ ULTRA VEST can match up to this one when it comes to function plus beats the price.. :-)
I still have to try that one. Though I know they're redesigning so we'll see!
Could somone share the "sweat on the back" experience on this pack? I am wondering how much hotter it is with the pack on youre back.
And awesome reviews, just like watching a tv show ;o)
you should do a review on the newton mv3
plan on reviewing the new 2014 line first. And the BOCO AT.
Just purchased this (thanks to your review :)) Any clue to what the plastic black and orange thing is for?
Are you referring to the Emergency Blanket?
Jason Hay no...thank you for the reply...there is a removable, 1.25" plastic black and orange clip-like thing attached to the front...???...
Claudia Galdjie I think it's an emergency whistle.
Jason Hay YEP...it's a whistle... :D
It's a whistle so you can keep yourself busy on a long run!
Looks like an overall almost perfect product. It even LOOKS comfy & light.
They've probably spent a lot of time on developing this, and the use of a mix of light and stretchy materials might justify the higher price. But the bladder doesn't even come included at that price ? Boooo :-(
What are your views on Inov 8 ultra vest? Much less expensive and hard bottles that are apparently shaped for a good fit around the chest.
I tested the Nathan Firecatcher and the inov-8 race ultra vest. They are both a little small for me. (The athletes you can see wearing it on youtube must be dwarfs :-) ) How does the Salomon in XL fit for larger guys? (6.13ft.)
Kinda late but I'm 6'1" as well. I just brought the XL size and took it on a 16 mile trial today. Fits me just fine. I was kinda skeptic at 1st, because for an XL, it still looked pretty small. I brought a 2Liter Platypus bladder and made it work(without the bladder sleeve it provided). I just wore a t-shirt underneath and my run was smooth. Really no complaints from me. As Ginger said, this vest AWESOME!
Any idea when the next version of this vest will be released? i know the old one was last summer, are they released each year?
I'm looking at the s-lab 12. I'm assuming the shape of the pack is the same. If so, do you think a 2 liter bladder would fit if I didn't use the insulation sleeve?
Hi!
I have a question.
Is there any benefit to purchasing the specific bladder sold by Solomon. Aside from it fitting the provided sleeve. Can I use another bladder from platypus for example. If so, could I use a 2L instead of 1.5L
Thank you for your help!
Hey Ethan... did you get the XS/S or the M/L? Unsure of what size to get. Thanks.
I have trouble with sizing too. I'm 5'7" (170) in height and 33" chest size. Any idea which size should I get? Thank you!
hi , have you seen and maybe had a chance to use the 5 or 12 vest 2015 version ive just seen then online now and was wondering if they were any good , i currently have the current 12 model , thanks.
You're just hylarious. Good review. It's true about elasticity in UD.Otherwise would be perfect.
It's a great product, but I still feel that the side pockets are quite far back and hard to reach.
Do you run in the vest?
***** No, I've only tried it in the stores, and i'm tempted cause it feel so good. But if i choose one it would be the 12 one.
Ah gotcha. Yeah, I think my arm has adapted to the stretch, haha. Sometimes, I use my opposite arm to reach around the back to grab items. 12 has more options though...
Ethan, I´m in the boundary of M/L sizing (43 " chest). Would you advise to go with the XL or do you think I´ll be fine with the M/L???? thanks a lot.
I see in your more recent race videos that you are using some other bottles besides the included soft flasks. I've tried fitting both Nathan and Camelbak 22 oz bottles in the holsters and they do not seem to work. Are you using any specific bottles?
I am using Ultimate Direction bottles
***** Hmm... I believe the UD bottles are 20 oz as well. Any particular reason for moving away from the soft flasks?
cbrownie6305 I've mentioned it in a few vids, but I need 20oz for my liquid nutrition, calorie counts, oz of water intake, etc. The flasks handle 17oz-ish which skews my ratio.
***** I see, thanks! I ask because I have had some bouncing issues with the soft flasks just as Nicolas has indicated below. I also found that at half-full these guys like to play turtle and disappear into the bottom of the pouch - maybe I will try out some UD bottles. Thanks for the info!
Is the Salomon 5 big enough for a 100k or 100m where you need to hold a ton of compulsory gear like jacket water torch... Of should I go with the 12?
Have any women tried this product? Many times the shoulders don't fit properly. It's like they were made for men's wider shoulders.
Don't see how you fit your phone into those sidepockets, I put my iphone into a waterproof case and it definitely wont fit.
huh. weird. I just slide it in, no problem. I also have a case on my iphone5. No issue with fitment.
How do you clean your vest?! I cant find any information regarding care for the vest! :(
Can you fit in a 2L bladder and is there something that holds the hoze ?
Would you review the Inov 8 Race Ultra Vest?
Debating hard between the 5 and 12 set. Without physically handling them but based on appearance and dimensions, they seem so similar. Have you spent any time with the 12? Can you feel the 7 extra liters of storage? I'm looking for something minimal and the 5 seem to hit the spot but I also don't want to be able to pack some gear and don't want to kick myself if I get the 5 and it turns out the 12 has that much more space and doesn't feel much bulkier. Help?
Haven't worn the 12, but for longer days, bigger outtings, the 12 would be filled up more and able to handle more weight. The 5 is a perfect race-ready pack for me.
I had the 5L and exchanged it for the 12L. It's exactly the same vest except they've added extra pockets. Side zippered pockets are bigger and even more accessible. Also now has a large zippered pocket behind the open pocket in the back. The fit is exactly the same and I would definitely suggest the 12L as opposed to the 5L if you have only one vest.
what do you prefer this hydro pack or ultimate direction?
As I say in this review, THIS is the pack I'd choose over AK vest.
What hard bottle do you use with this vest ?
You need a better score system, almost all your reviewed products have the same (or similar) score....
+drtisbeter I've said this many times before, the points don't really matter (there's no percentages, no half points, no decimal system, etc). It's more about the likes/dislikes - use those when making your decision to purchase or not
I know this is old, but would a 2L bladder fit in this pack?
Steve Connelly Yes it does. I have one and use it a lot.
hahaha i drink from my flasks the same way while running .... now i understand why people give me that looks :D
hahahaha!
I know I am commenting a lot but just a heads up this pack is on sale right now on runningwarehouse.com for $120 with free shipping!!
awesome!
Better not let your new fiance see the start of this video or she may change her mind dude. LOL. The vest seems a bit tight on you, is that how you like to wear it or was the sizing off?
Sizing is perfect. It's a minimal vest and only has what it needs. Looks tiny on me, but that's better than being too bulky or having too much useless material. Minimal = better in this case.
Anyone had zip trouble on this model?
I had some corrosion after I did some runs in the rain...they got stuck but a little bit of vaseline spray helped it.
Thats what happened. Will try the spray. Great bit of kit otherwise
anyone want to link me a cheap version of this? something with front pockets and under $50 lol
love it ha ha funny shit :)
30s in Im SOLD
$$$$ Way to much
anybody else found that the water bottle/bags split easily? Salomon would make hideous contraception
you mean the front holsters? I've had this pack for well over a year, washed countless times, raced & trained THOUSANDS of miles and not a single hole in any of the stretchy fabric ANYWHERE on this pack. That's some incredible durability.
No i mean in the blue bottles which come with it.... the vest itself is faultless