When it comes to long-distance running, hydration is paramount.
Whether you're tackling a marathon, hitting the trails for a long run or just trying to stay hydrated during intense training sessions, a quality hydration vest can make all the difference.
What features should you look for in an hydration vest?
The best hydration vests will be lightweight yet durable. Look for vests made from breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics that keep you cool and dry. Mesh panels are an excellent feature, enhancing ventilation and preventing the vest from becoming a sweaty burden on your back.
Next, pay attention to the fit. A badly-fitting vest can cause chafing and discomfort, so it’s crucial to find one with adjustable straps that allow you to tailor the fit to your body. Many models feature multiple adjustment points to ensure a snug and secure fit, minimising bounce and ensuring the vest stays in place as you run.
When it comes to storing your H2O, yu need a balance of hydration capacity and additional storage. Look for vests that come with multiple pockets to store gels, snacks, a phone and other essentials. Some vests also include a dedicated compartment for a hydration bladder, while others are designed to hold soft flasks in the front pockets for easy access.
Reflective elements are a must for those early morning or late evening runs. Safety should never be compromised, and reflective strips or patches ensure you remain visible in low-light conditions.
Other handy extras? Features like quick-release buckles, easy-to-reach hydration tubes, and simple pocket access can make your run more enjoyable and hassle-free.
We've rounded up all of the best women's running vests below
Salomon ADV SKIN 5 Women's Running Vest
Salomon's best-selling vest is a versatile, multi-tasking hydration hero. Designed for women and fine-tuned for demanding endurance races, this ADV SKIN 5 ensures on-the-go access to hydration, long-distance comfort and freedom of movement.
The 5L version has an ultra-versatile storage unit and is ideal for shorter races and adventures. Adapted to women’s morphology, the design uses stretch, breathable fabrics and lightweight adjustments, including double-stretch chest straps, to optimize fit and stability.
Buy now £87.61, Salomon
Fitletic Trail 2.5 Hydration Vest
This Fitletic’s Trail 2.5 HydraVest was designed with comfort and function in mind, crafted for trail runners seeking performance. Lightweight and breathable, it's designed to move with you throughout your run.
The hydration vest is equipped with two integrated soft flask bottles with long straws, each offering a generous 500 ml capacity, as well as an additional bladder pouch capable of accommodating a 1.5 L bladder. Its large storage pocket provides ample space for essentials, keeping your gear organised and easily accessible.
Buy now £86.00, Runners Need
MP Velocity Ultra Hydration Vest - Black
Not just great for your nutrition needs (try the Speculoos protein if you haven't already), My Protein is also a top choice for workout accessories. The brand's Velocity Ultra Hydration Vest is perfect for long-distance runs.
With storage for all the essentials like your phone, keys, gels and water bottles, it brings together all of the essentials in an easy-to-wear style that's also adjustable.
Buy now £51.99, My Protein
OMM Unisex TrailFire Vest
Designed to carry the essentials needed for everyday runs and races, the TrailFire Vest is your new pavement-pounding BFF when it comes to longer runs.
The running vest provides seven easy access pockets for all your on-the-move essentials; plus a 3L mesh pocket on the back, for less frequently accessed items and a bladder.
Made to be fast, it was ergonomically designed to hold at the shoulder and diaphragm, allowing your lungs to be unrestricted for optimal performance. It also comes with 2x 350ml bottles.
Buy now £74.91, Runners Need
KIPRUN 5L Trail Running Vest
Renowned for its snug fit, this Kiprun running vest is a top choice for keeping everything steady and in place while you're hitting your next PB. Its seven handy pockets are easily accessible with plenty of storage to keep keys, headphones, gels and anything else close to hand without distractions.
Buy now £39.99, Decathlon
On Ultra Vest 5L
A lightweight, customisable, five-litre trail running vest designed for short to medium distances, the ON Ultra Vest includes two 500 ml Hydrapak flasks and has enough pockets for valuables, gels and even a light jacket.
With reflective detailing for visibility in low light and strategic non-stretch zones to minimize bounce and movement, it ticks all the boxes for comfortable wear. You'll forget you're even wearing it.
Buy now £130.00, Alpine Trek
Lululemon Fast and Free Trail Running Vest
Made from water-repellent fabric for the most quintessential of British running occasions, this Lululemon Fast and Free Trail Running Vest has everything you need to focus on covering the distance without distractions.
The hydration vest is is windproof, has four-way stretch and the front drop-in pocket fits a 500ml hydration flask with a tie to keep the flask in place. Its elasticated sternum straps keep your pack secure and snug as you run.
Buy now £128.00, Lululemon
ArcticFit LED Running Vest
One of the most budget-friendly options on the market, the ArcticFit LED Running Vest wins when it comes to early morning or evening runs. Its slip-on LED lights enhance your visibility during low-light conditions, while its bright pink shade keeps you nicely visible on the road.
The vest has four compartments for convenient and accessible item storage as well as a storm-proof pocket that fits all major branded phones.
Buy now £32.99, ArcticFit
UTOBEST Running Backpack
Made with high-density mesh, the UTOBEST Running vest uses fabric that is breathable and wicks away moisture - perfect for sweatier summer runs when air flow is key.
Its ergonomic design with an adjustable belt ensures it fits the body perfectly, with a lightweight design that's flexible to movement. The vest has one main compartment, two water bottle pockets and three small pockets to keep everything safe and secure.
Buy now £29.80, Amazon
Camelbak Women's Zephyr Vest 11L with 1L Hydration
A dream for ultra-long distance runners and fast-packers, the Zephyr Vest was engineered with body mapping for optimal ventilation and designed to perform for your specific pursuit. It's also impressively lightweight and maxed out with safety features.
There's a secure cell phone pocket, a built-in safety whistle and two Quick Stow flasks at the front of your vest for easy access. And since you're always on the run, the ultra-lightweight material is treated with a polygiene antimicrobial to keep bacteria at bay from one stretch to the next.
Buy now £140.00, Sports Direct
Verdict
When it comes to the best women's running vests, the Salomon ADV SKIN 5 Women's Running Vest is unparalleled. Its lightweight, breathable materials, customisable fit, ample storage and reflective safety features make it the ultimate choice for hydration and comfort on hot, long-distance runs.
