8 best hydration packs for running, hiking and long-distance walks

This unisex running vest with flasks is one of Salomon’s most popular running packs and it’s easy to see why. Recently updated, it’s designed with only the essentials in mind – remaining lightweight while including everything you’d need while on a long run. Featuring a ridiculous amount of pockets – two expandable stretchy pockets at the front (ideal for snacks), two pockets to fit the flasks, small shoulder pockets that are great for keys (there’s even a key holder), one wide back pocket and a secure zipped pocket, perfect for your phone – it also comes with two 500ml soft flasks, and the fact it’s made from breathable fabrics means it fits snugly to the body. We really loved how comfortable this vest felt to run in.

It also offers minimal bounce – we really appreciated the subtle elastic loops that secure the flasks in their pockets, which makes them easy to drink from. The elastic straps on the front offer a wrap-like feel and they are adjustable, so you can customise the fit. It holds up to 5l – so it’s meant to be used for shorter outings or race days.

If you need more than the 1l of water that can be stored in the flasks (or if you prefer drinking from a water bladder), this bag comes with a thermos sleeve, which helps to keep your water cool, and pops directly into the back of the vest. Although you do have to buy the 1.5l bladder (£32, Saloman.com) separately.

A staple at ultramarathon events, the 6.0 version of this hydration vest is an upgrade of the 5.0 and has a lot of storage for fuel and water, but also enough to stow a rain jacket. We particularly like the small ​​handy pocket on the shoulder strap, which is excellent for your keys or a lip balm. Like the Salomon ADV skin, it comes with two 500ml bottles and it’s made of nylon and polyester, so it’s breathable. It has a large compartment on the back, which can store a 2l reservoir of water, and also has nifty little trekking pole holders that are very useful for walkers and hikers alike.

But the best thing is that it’s been designed with female ergonomics in mind – so, in comparison with some of the unisex vests, the Ultra Vesta allows for a little more adjustment based on a woman’s body. It even has a​​ slightly narrower cut in the shoulder straps and the back offers a more tailored fit for smaller frames.

Also designed with women’s bodies in mind, this hydration pack is great for beginners and marketed at an affordable price. It has most of the features you’d want, including a breathable, lightweight feel (thanks to its 3D micro mesh), a secure pocket for your phone and two 500ml quick-stow flasks for water to drink on the go. It also has adjustable straps for increased stability – although we found this came up a little on the small side, so size up, if you’re unsure.

If you want to buy a vest-style hydration pack without breaking the bank, try this one. Coming in at under £30, it features 12 pockets to store any belongings – there are even pockets inside other pockets, so we’re still finding new places to store our gels. The main downside is it can only hold up to 1l of water (2 x 500ml bottles) and the two water bottles for the front must be purchased separately (£9.99, Decathlon.co.uk). But, even after purchasing those add-ons, the price still comes in at less than many other race vests. We like the upgraded white and orange colourway for 2022, too.

Enter any ultramarathon event – which is technically any run that exceeds the marathon distance of 26.2 miles (42km) – and you’re bound to see someone with one of these. Very similar to the Salomon ADV skin 5 set hydration vest (£110, Salomon.com​​) – the fit is just as good and comfortable – but the main difference here is the size. With 12l volume there’s a lot more space for longer endurance races.

The two 500ml soft flasks come with the vest and it boasts two zipped front pockets, a bladder-compatible pocket on the back, tunnel pocket and a main compartment compressor. So, if you’re planning on running for more than 10 hours, especially on trails, and you’re not likely to spot a water fountain or a supermarket, then a pack with a reservoir for water and a drinking straw is ideal. Plus, this pack can be easily ​​upgraded with the custom quiver (£25, Salomon.com), providing quick access and stable carrying for your poles.

The Adidas Terrex Trail running vest is a pricier option but it’s one of the best. The lightweight and breathable pack features mesh lining, multiple storage pockets, which are easily reachable mid run, two soft water flasks on the front, reflective details and bungee straps with toggles that are adjustable and enable you to customise the fit. This is a unisex vest, so consider sizing down or up as necessary.

With a fuss-free and minimalist design (would you expect anything less from The North Face?), this hydration vest is a great lightweight option for going the distance. In fact, due to it’s thin, quick-drying fabric, this vest feels barely noticeable when running with it. The durable, ripstop fabric wicks excess moisture away from your skin more than most and it also offers 360-degree reflectivity if you’re out running early in the morning or late at night. The vest includes two soft water bottles in the price, which can be firmly attached to the actual bottle pockets, and they retract quickly with a simple leash system – great for quickly filling up mid race.

Featuring a new, more comfortable design, the Salomon packs in the Sense Pro range are built for speed and make it easy to access your trail essentials, so you can push on further and faster on race day. The Sense Pro packs are available in unisex versions and female-specific packs (£140, Salomon), which offer slightly more elastic and more space around the chest, as well as lower hydration pockets for comfort.

Similar to the other Salomon packs, this hydration vest is also made with the brand’s Sensifit technology – which is breathable and lightweight and designed to stay closer to your body. This is definitely a more advanced hydration vest but we still recommend sizing up if you’re in between sizes, as these packs are snug.