When you’re running there’s only so much you can hold before juggling keys, a phone and water becomes more of a mission than completing the miles themselves.
So investing in a running backpack, whether you are commuting home from work or going on a trail run, really is a no-brainer. It allows you to hold all your running essentials including your best muscle recovery drinks and snacks, water, and any other key items to make your workout that bit better.
Just like a good pair of running shoes, finding the right running backpack for you all depends on your running style, as well as how many miles you’ll be running, and what essentials you’ll need as you hit the trails, mountains or your commute home.
Key features for a good running backpack
Ventilation - If you’re clocking up the miles then you’re bound to get sweaty, so ventilation, in the form of mesh or lightweight sweat wicking material, will help you finish the run with a dry back and a sweat-free bag.
Padded straps or a chest strap - Comfort when running with a backpack on is essential, so padded straps, or material that will leave you chafe-free means it will just be your glutes aching tomorrow, and not the rest of your body. A chest strap will also secure the bag to you, making sure it stays put as you pound those pavements.
Capacity and weight - If long runs are your bag, opting for a bigger capacity is wise so you have enough room for snacks, enough water to keep you hydrated and even layers in case the temperature falls. Smaller bags, or vests, are ideal for trail or shorter runs. While choosing a backpack with lightweight material will mean you’re not adding extra weight to your run.
Here’s our pick of the best running backpacks for long and short distances
Lululemon active backpack 10L
A cross between a running vest and a backpack, Lululemon’s design is lightweight enough to take running or hiking with you and big enough to carry everything you need for your journey. The active backpack comes in grey and black and is also water-repellent, in case you get caught in a downpour.
If it’s hydration you’re after, the bag has a side pocket for a water bottle and enough space for a water reservoir. The large mesh fabric at the back of the pack is enough to help you wick away sweat, while the thick straps won’t fall off your shoulders as you run thanks to the padded breathable harness attached to them.
Buy now £108.00, Lululemon
Columbia Montrail Trans Alps backpack 7L
If you only want to take the essentials with you, this pocketed vest is up to the job. It slips over the arms as a vest with pockets galore, providing a multitude of storage. With lined nutrition pockets you can fill up with protein snacks for after your run, while the hydration pack, made of stretchy, open-air mesh, has a 7-litre capacity so you can embark on that long run you’ve been thinking about without fear of getting dehydrated.
The pack’s ergonomic strap system, with adjustable bungee sternum straps, allows you to adjust for a snug fit and also includes a rescue whistle - just in case.
The running essential, which comes in teal and black, is water resistant and has breathable mesh material throughout so you won’t have to worry about a build up of sweat.
Buy now £115.00, Columbia
Salomon Sense Pro 5
If you’re into trail running and need a no-fuss pack or vest Salomon’s Sense Pro 5 slips on easily and fastens across the body with sternum straps - which are easy to adjust as you put one foot in front of the other.
There’s nothing worse than having to stop when you’re aiming for a PB so its front flash pockets and tunnel pockets give you enough convenient space to store your fuel and grab it on the go.
Made from SensiFit™ construction and soft stretch fabric, it’s soft on the skin but will also feel snug on the move. With two soft 500ml water flasks built-in you’ll be able to run for miles without stopping for a water break.
Buy now £140.00, Amazon
Sweaty Betty Commuter running backpack
If you’re one of the dedicated runners who like to run their commute home after a long day, you’ll probably need more storage. This nifty design from Sweaty Betty gives you enough room for a change of clothes, your running essentials, and even fits a laptop.
Made from recycled materials you’ll also benefit from padded straps, allowing for a chafe-free finish as you return home. Reflective details on the front, shoulder and chest of the bag also mean you’ll be seen in low light and the optional fastening, at the front, will keep the bag in place whether you’re jogging or trying to beat your PB.
Buy now £95.00, Sweaty Betty
Evadict Unisex trail running vest and backpack
Weighing only 175g this bag is perfect for anyone who wants to run short distances at fast speeds. With 12 pockets you’ll never run out of room for keys, your phone, or even some post-race nutrition. The close fit, lightweight design is great for comfort, while its capacity to carry 1L of water is ideal for anyone running that bit further, or going on a leisurely hike.
Sustainability buffs will notice it’s made from 60 percent recycled materials and its design means you can adjust the straps to suit your body shape.
Buy now £29.99, Decathlon
REFLECT360 Running Backpack
This well-designed bag covers most of the back, with chunky flat straps that will sit on the shoulders well, no matter what you have inside. The bag comes complete with numerous pockets, including a handy side one for storing keys and your phone. The bag comes in black with reflective accents for low-light running, while the luminous yellow version makes it easier for road traffic to spot you if you’re heading out at dusk.
Made with waterproof material and zips you won’t have to worry if the infamous English weather catches you out. It also has a chest strap to secure the bag on the move, while inside you’ll find a 10L capacity - for the ability to store more than the average running backpack.
Buy now £49.99, Proviz
OSPREY DYNA 15 WOMEN'S VEST
Love mountain running? This backpack is designed for long distance runners who need to pack their fuel and extra changes of clothes - and need a larger, but lightweight pack to run with. Made from lightweight but durable nylon the bag wraps around the body to help distribute the weight, with compression straps and a padded hip belt allowing for a closer fit, but a chafe-free run.
Mesh and side pockets allow you to store food or your other running essentials - giving you easy access to them. The teal-coloured bag, which stores 15L, also has space for your essential hydration, in the form of two soft water flasks.
Buy now £99.99, Sports Shoes
NB Fast Flight Running Backpack
If you’re looking for a running backpack on a budget this offering from New Balance won’t break the bank - but it doesn’t skimp on quality either. Made with lightweight material it won’t weigh you down as you complete those short to mid-distance runs. Designed with reflective accents on the logo and the straps, to catch the light as you’re running, you have a choice of black, blue and navy, matching it to your running attire if you’re into that level or coordination (yes please).
The large bag, with a chest strap, has secure zippered pockets, giving you security as you run, and enough compartments to store your valuables and snacks for a post-run pick-me-up.
At under £20 at the time of publishing, it’s one of the cheapest bags on the list, but also has a big capacity.
Buy now £18.20, New Balance
Artlu 10L Running backpack
We like this bright and compact version from Artlu, which can securely hold up to 10L of running gear. Its soft mesh back is great for comfort, while straps can be adjusted easily for the perfect fit. If your hiking or going on a long run the bag has a capacity for a 2L bladder, providing all the hydration you’ll need.
Other features include a rear light attachment loop for staying safe in the dark and adjustable sternum straps. When you’re on a long run and don’t aim to stop then the bag’s four pockets, four around the shoulders and two zipped side pockets, also give you easy access to fuel or your phone.
Buy now £39.99, AlpKit
Verdict
The Lululemon active backpack is stylish but also practical - with 10L of space inside and even enough space for a water reservoir. Sweat-wicking and lightweight it can also be doubled up as a gym bag.
