I have been using the Nathan Race Vest (HPL 020 backpack) for some time now and am highly impressed. It features a 2 L bladder, 2 small front pockets, 2 back zipper compartments and has mesh shoulder straps and back panel to allow airflow against your body. The straps, once adjusted, permit the pack to be fitted perfectly to the body so that even when full of water, it does not bounce around and there is very limited movement (translate: NO chafing!). The bladder has a wide open top, is easily sealed and the hose can be removed; these features make it easy to fill and clean. The bladder is also very durable and is turned inside out for drying, important for removing all the moisture before storing (so you don’t get anything growing in there…a problem which we have all likely faced before).
The Nathan vest is perfect for any runs (or rides) lasting between 0.5 and 3 hours. It is also great for shorter adventure races/runs as there is enough space for your mandatory gear (including a small jacket) with a large capacity for water. The front pockets allow for easy access to your compass, gels, bars, (cookies, ju jubes) or anything else that you need to get a hold on the run. Also, it is easy to get on and off in case you need to take off or put on more clothes (if your teammates don’t like waiting for you to change). The tight profile of the vest means that you don’t get caught up on branches when bushwacking through the thick forest.
Another feature that may be more important to your teammates, training partners and family than to the owner is that it doesn’t seem to hold any odours. I have had several other backpacks that become pretty pungent over time. This may seem like a minor thing to the owner but the people around you will appreciate this!
Overall, I think this is a great product and I recommend it to any runner who does any runs over 45 minutes. I think this is the best way to carry enough water for a run; you will barely notice that it is one after 5 minutes. Purchasing a Nathan Race Vest (they have several models of various sizes to choose from) will be a one-time investment as it will last a long time (also experienced with several other Nathan products that we own including a hydration belt and a hand held water bottle). I also thought that the pricing was quite reasonable; it was less expensive that other similar packs. So get to a Running Free store and get your Nathan Race Vest…then you can thank me later.
