Best Race Vest Running Packs

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The updated Ultimate Direction Race Vest offers a confident, dialled-in fit with just the right features for runners who like to travel light.

Ultimate Direction says: 

Featherlight yet feature rich, the updated Race Vest brings a dynamic fit, allowing freedom of movement for picking up the pace. Stretch side panels wrap around the torso for a secure fit and dynamic bungee sternum straps to allow for chest expansion without the bounce. Protective air mesh panels behind the front bottle and phone pockets prevent chafing over many miles. With a full-size range, this unisex vest comfortably accommodates most sizes.

Our Verdict

At around 175g (medium), the Race Vest 6.0 delivers a 6-litre capacity in a refined layout that feels simple but purposeful. The fit is more adaptable than earlier versions, thanks to the vest wrapping neatly around the torso due to its soft stretch side panels. The chest straps are bungee-based, which means they expand with your breath rather than restrict it—something I noticed on longer climbs.

Storage has been thoughtfully reworked. Two large bottle pockets up front hold the included 500ml flasks securely, and the phone-sized ripstop pockets behind them are sweat-resistant and easy to access. Around the back, there’s a horizontal stretch stash pocket (ideal for a jacket or spare gloves) and a secure compartment that’s big enough for a lightweight layer or emergency kit. Trekking pole loops are removable and can be mounted front or back, depending on your carry style.

– Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear

Features

• Includes 2 HydraPak Body Bottle 500’s with bungee loop bottle holders to keep bottles up and in place as you drink
• Added air mesh panels behind bottle pockets offer extra comfort and chafe protection as the miles tick by
• 2 large zippered ripstop chest pockets are water and sweat resistant, and large enough to accommodate most phones
• Dynamic sternum straps with hook closure allow for full chest expansion without bounce, and daisy chain attachment lets you customize placement and fit
• Includes four removable bungee loops with hooks to attach trekking poles; loops can be attached at front or back of vest for customizable trekking pole carry options
• Large water resistant rear compartment with internal reservoir sleeve and hanging strap comfortably accommodates reservoir
• A new universal and dynamic fit that wraps completely around the torso for a more secure vest-like fit
• Stretch back passthrough pocket for ambidextrous access on the go; large enough for jacket, gloves, hat, layering system, quick stow items, and nutrition
• Back secure zippered pocket is accessible while wearing vest: contains key fob for added peace of mind that is large enough for an EpiPen
• Bungee compression system that is clean, hidden, quick and adjustable while wearing

Specifications

Small

• Weight: 166g
• Capacity: 6 liters
  
• Height x Width: 38 x 35 cm

Medium

• Weight: 175g
• Capacity: 6 liters
  
• Height x Width: 40 x 37 cm

Large

• Weight: 188g
• Capacity: 6 liters
  
• Height x Width: 41 x 40 cm

Material & Construction

• 84% Nylon, 16% Elastane

Help & advice:

• The Ultimate Guide to Choosing an Ultralight Rucksack
• Time-Saver Guide to Choosing a Rucksack