TRAIL TIP#2: HOW TO CHOOSE A RUNNING PACK
How to choose a running pack is as individual a choice as how you like your burrito :) My first running pack was not right for me and I almost threw it off Mt. Diablo during a half marathon race (I didn’t but I wanted to) It rode up as I ran, it moved too much and the flasks had these long straws that smacked me in the face.
These days it’s so hard to find stores where you can actually try things on before you make your purchase but thankfully we still have REI which carries a variety of packs and brands so you can at least get a good idea of the type of pack that will fit you best. You can also check out some of the recommendations below, measure yourself, scope out the return policies, and make some online orders to try them out at home.
Some packs are light weight and made more for racing so they may just hold two, 500 ml bottles but we recommend picking a pack that allows you to fit at least a 2 liter bladder in the pack as well as space in the front for one or two bottles. You can fill the bladder with plain water and the two bottles in front with Tailwind which is a mix of carbs and electrolytes (you will learn all about fueling during camp.) This is the kind of pack we recommend for attending camp so you can carry all the hydration you need for a longer day out on the trails. Plus, you can fit your snacks, a light weight rain coat, and emergency blanket in there comfortably.
We also recommend buying a pack that is made specifically for women as these packs generally fit our bodies better unless you have the back of a linebacker like I do and you may find the unisex variety more comfortable. Both Kate and I have the Salomon ADV SKIN 12 which is the best running pack I’ve ever had. (I have no affiliation but damn, do I wish I did.)
Some brands to consider:
Salomon Adv Skin 12, Active Skin 4, or Sense Pro 5
Nathan Pinnacle Pro 12L
Camelback Trail Run Vest
Kailua Fuga Air 7IV
Vest Priorities (according to Cristal)
How you would like to carry water (flasks or bladder)
Overall carrying capacity
Comfort
A zipping pocket big enough for your phone
COLOR (no yucky colors lol)
We would love to hear what you currently use and how you would review your pack. Please feel free to email us back if you have more specific questions! We hope this gave you a good starting place as your pack can make or break your day out on the trails.
