Running is one of the most accessible forms of cardio, and you don’t need much to reap its benefits, which can include a stronger heart and lifted spirits. (1) Whether you’re hitting your miles on outdoor trails or squeezing in your training on one of the best treadmills for running, staying comfortable is key. Once you’ve laced up your sneakers, figured out your route, and queued up your tunes, slipping on one of the best running vests can help support your training by keeping you cool, adding some warmth, providing security for your valuables, and even keeping you hydrated.
Our team has tried and tested nearly 20 of the most popular vests for running, and I’ve personally put 10 of them through the paces. While navigating our recommendations, you’ll want to consider the type of training you’re looking to support. Do you need a hydration sleeve for ultramarathon efforts? How much gear and goodies do you want to carry with you? Do you want to keep cool or heat things up? Whether you’re looking to tackle the high elevation of Colorado’s 14ers or need some extra visibility while cruising the busy streets of Los Angeles, our top picks below have you covered.
The 9 Best Running Vests of 2024
Best Running Vest Overall: Patagonia Slope Runner Vest
Best Cold Weather Running Vest: Nike Therma-Fit Swift
Best Lightweight Running Vest for Women: Columbia Women’s Endless Trail Running Vest
Best Weighted Vest for Running: Hyperwear Hyper Vest ELITE
Best Hydration Running Vest: The North Face Sunriser Run Vest 8
Best Luxury Running Vest: Lululemon Down For it All Vest
Best Lightweight Running Vest for Men: REI Co-op Swiftland Running Vest – Men’s
Best Trail Running Vest: Nathan Sports Pinnacle FeatherLite 1.5 Liter Hydration Vest
Best Reflective Running Vest: Nathan Sports Vibe Reflective Vest
How We Tested and Chose the Best Running Vests
The BarBend team includes marathon runners, certified personal trainers, and “I go running because it helps with my mental health” athletes — aka, me — and we’ve personally tested nearly 20 running vests in our search for the best gear for your long-distance and sprint-training sessions.
The BarBend equipment testing methodology is simple. We scored each profile in categories such as comfort, fit, and adjustability on a scale from 1 (not great) to 5 (awesome). We focused on the following areas of interest when testing and selecting the top vests.
Comfort: “I look at the seams and feel of the textiles and how much irritation they can cause once I start to sweat,” says trail runner and BarBend editorial member Ben Emminger about what he looks for in a running vest. “I’ve had past vests that turned my shoulders into giant hot spots.” We prioritized vests made from nylon and polyester for their stretchiness, breathability, and water-resistant qualities.
Adjustability: “Having the ability to adjust the vest means you can cater an already-well-sized piece of clothing even more to properly fit the specifics of your body,” notes marathon runner Kate Meier NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1. We opted for vests with adjustable front fasteners and easy-to-use side pulls to help users find the right fit.
Price: To accommodate a wide range of users, we’ve included options that range from $25 up to $230.99. While lower-priced vests can lack storage and versatility, higher-priced models tend to offer a wider range of pockets and lighter overall weights. We also included a weighted vest that can assist with HIIT workouts or CrossFit WODs.
Features: When making our picks, we looked for zipper pockets, breathable fabrics, insulated panels, whistles, bladder pouches, soft flasks, and more. Our picks tout a variety of features to support your training, regardless of the weather, mileage, or training intensity.
Best Running Vest Overall: Patagonia Slope Runner Vest
Patagonia Slope Runner Vest
Patagonia Slope Runner Vest
This hydration running vest includes two 500-ml HydraPak flasks and a bladder pouch in the back to help keep water at the ready during your runs. There’s also ample storage, including a secure zipper pocket in the back, and trekking pole loops on the back and front.
Specs
Price: $169
Material: 100% recycled polyester stretch-woven ripstop, nylon, spandex
Sizes: XS to L
Wash Instructions: Hand wash cold, hang dry
Reservoir Compatible: Yes
Pros
Breathable, lightweight fabric
Two included HydraPak flasks
Lots of storage and trekking pole holders
Patagonia will repair damages for free (with a small shipping fee)
Cons
Expensive
Not the most durable vest
Front fasteners can be hard to hook
The Patagonia Slope Runner Vest looks like a simple hydration running vest, but it’s super adjustable and has tons of storage so you’re comfortable and equipped during running workouts through the city or on a backcountry trail. I took this vest out on three separate weekends to see how I liked it compared to the competition, and while I think it’s best suited for long expeditions, it ended up being my favorite companion on my jogs. Functionality, comfort, and workout experience scored a 5 out of 5.
Front of the The Patagonia Slope Runner Vest.
Made from polyester, nylon, and spandex, it’s lightweight at just 6.9 ounces. I also liked the breathability provided by the mesh shoulders, back, and sides. You get two 500-milliliter HydraPak flasks with this vest, both of which fit securely on the front of the pouch. If you’ve never used these before, once they’re filled up, all you have to do is bite on the mouthpiece to drink.
Let’s talk about storage, because this vest isn’t playing around. There are four front pockets: two hold your HydraPak flasks, and the other two are perfect for keeping snacks at the ready or even stowing a phone — my iPhone 12 Pro Max fits entirely within all of these pockets. Loops on the back and front of the vest can also hold your trekking poles. Functionality scored a 5 out of 5.
On the back of the vest, there’s a zipper compartment to keep your valuables. I also really like that there’s a key clip to save you from that dreaded moment when you get back to your car after a long run and start frantically patting down every pocket, thinking “I guess I live here now.” You’ll also find a bladder pouch on the back for your longer expeditions and a large stash pouch for jackets, which we found reachable mid-stride in a pair of our best running shoes.
Back of the Patagonia Slope Runner Vest.
Compared to other hydration vests I’ve tried, this doesn’t feel as durable, which is wild considering the $169 price tag — almost $50 to $90 more than others on the market. Durability scored a 4 out of 5. However, Patagonia does mend damaged gear for free (plus a small shipping fee).
My biggest gripe with this vest is the front fasteners. It took me six attempts to try and get the lower plastic hook to link to the bungee cord when fastening the vest shut.
Best Cold Weather Running Vest: Nike Therma-FIT Swift
Nike Therma-FIT Swift Vest
Specs
Price: $115
Material: Polyester
Sizes: XXS to XXL
Wash Instructions: Machine wash
Reservoir Compatible: No
Pros
Double-brushed microfiber fleece keeps body heat in
Zippered side pockets
Works for running and for everyday wear
Loose fit for layering
Cons
No locker loop for easy hanging
Multiple steps for washing
Fabric stains easily
The Nike Therma-FIT Swift running vest is cool — like, I look really cool in this vest, thank you for noticing — and warm. The double-brushed microfiber fleece helps to keep your body heat in, and the loose-fitting design provides a slight androgynous fit that can still be cinched at the waist if you want to trap more heat in or show off ‘dem curves! Functionality, feel, and comfort scored a 5 out of 5.
Our tester shows off the front of the Nike Therma-FIT Swift.
I wear this vest every weekend (and daily just around the house) for chilly early morning beach volleyball sessions. I’m in Southern California, and I’ve found this vest is best when it’s around 55 degrees and I’m at the beach before the sun’s up.
It’s ideal for chilly weather, but not something that’s going to protect you from a heavy downpour, snow, or harsh winds. Its loose fit is great for layering, so it’s a nice accessory to have on chilly mornings that turn into hot afternoons. I also like that it gives me enough freedom of movement to support my running warm-ups. Comfort scored a 5 out of 5.
The zippered side pockets are large enough to hold my iPhone 12 Pro Max, keys, and wallet. And I like the reflective details for night visibility on the bottom back of the vest and where the Nike swoosh is on the front. There’s also a waist cinch, which is useful to help trap in even more heat, but I didn’t love the placement of this near my belly button since it accentuates the hips and chest when cinched.
Back of the Nike Therma-FIT Swift Running Jacket.
I found it lightweight and compact — I could even stuff it in my gym bag. However, when doing this I got sunscreen on the back of it, and the steps to wash it had me worried that this vest wouldn’t prove to be durable. I needed to zip up all the closures, turn it inside out, machine wash it cold, and hang it to dry.
It’s also worth noting that the garment shouldn’t be laid on itself when wet. After the wash, the sunscreen was still on the vest — I blame myself, but you’ve been warned. Durability scored a 3 out of 5.
Also, while I absolutely love this vest, I do wish that they would have included a locker loop so I don’t have to break out a hanger whenever I’m not using it.
[Related: The Best Gym Bags]
Best Lightweight Running Vest for Women: Columbia Women’s Endless Trail Running Vest
Columbia Women’s Endless Trail Running Vest
Specs
Price: $110
Material: Nylon, polyester, and elastane
Sizes: XS to XXL
Wash instructions: Machine wash cold and gentle
Reservoir Compatible: No
Pros
Women’s vest with added room in hips and chest
Lightweight and packable into interior pocket
Omni-Shield is water and stain-resistant
Locker hanger loop
Cons
The reflective material is minimal
Stains easily
The Columbia Women’s Endless Trail Running Vest is our choice for the best lightweight running vest for women as it provides more space in the chest and hips than many unisex vests. While this vest provides a lot of warmth, it’s lightweight and compact, and can be stuffed inside an interior pocket for easy storage. Functionality, comfort, and adjustability scored a 5 out of 5. I wore this vest for early morning jogs, layered on top of a long-sleeve shirt, and it felt light and warm (not hot) when the weather was around 50 degrees.
Front of the Columbia Women’s Endless Trail Running Vest
The shell is made from nylon, a lightweight and durable material that won’t bog you down when teaching yourself how to run faster. (2) This shell also features Omni-Shield, a water and stain-resistant technology that helps make this vest quick-drying, so you can hit the trail day after day, even in wet conditions.
When I wore this vest, it reminded me of the Nike FIT Swift vest. It’s fairly warm, not too tight on the body, and has zipper side pockets. However, it wins out for practicality due to the inclusion of internal drop pockets, the ability to pack this vest into a pocket for easy storage, and a locker loop that lets me hang it up by the front door.
I also like that there’s a waist drawstring at the very bottom of the vest, unlike the Swift’s central waist cinch. Adjustability scored a 5 out of 5.
There is some reflective material on the front and back of this vest, but it’s not going to give you a ton of visibility in low-light conditions. Additionally, the reflective detail on the back is smaller than a quarter and placed below the collar, so my ponytail could easily hide it from view — so you may need to split your attention between watching traffic and practicing proper running form.
Our tester climbing a rock wall with the Columbia Women’s Endless Trail Running Vest.
And while this vest is machine washable (cold), washing it didn’t remove the chalk stains I had from wearing this while rock climbing. As such, you’ll want to be careful about what comes in contact with this vest, as stains may not be easily removed. Durability scored 4 out of 5.
Best Weighted Vest for Running: Hyperwear Hyper Vest ELITE
Hyperwear Hyper Vest Elite
Hyperwear Hyper Vest Elite
The Hyper Vest Elite features a contoured design and lightweight Cordura makeup that almost feels like you’re wearing your favorite training shirt instead of a weight vest. Depending on your chosen size, you can achieve added resistance of up to 25 pounds, more than enough to help bolster your next sweat session.
Specs
Price: Starting at $230.99
Material: CORDURA fabric, galvanized steel weights
Sizes: SM to XL
Wash instructions: Hand and machine washable with non-abrasive detergent
Reservoir Compatible: No
Pros
Can add between 10 and 20 pounds to your workouts
Individual weights weigh 2.25 ounces for incremental adjustments
Side lacing creates a bounce-free run
Thin and breathable profile allows for mobility and comfort
Cons
Limited max weight between 15 and 20 pounds, depending on size
Beginning at $230.99, this is a pricey vest
Annoying to take out or adjust the individual weights
The Hyperwear Hyper Vest ELITE is one of the best weighted vests we’ve tested. It comes with bite-sized steel weights that you can distribute throughout the vest to intensify runs, sprints, plyometric training, or CrossFit WODs. All told, you can add up to 20 pounds of weight to the vest — depending on the size — though each weight weighs just 2.25 ounces to allow for incremental adjustments. Movement freedom scored a 4.5 out of 5, while adjustability, breathability, and security scored a 4 out of 5.
The side lacing allows for a unisex adjustable fit, suitable for all body types. “Adjusting the sides only takes a moment,” noted our tester, who scored adjustability a 4 out of 5. “While it’s easy to adjust and I was able to create a nice, snug fit, I’m a little concerned about it stretching out over time.” Durability scored a 4 out of 5.
“Unlike other weight vests that have weight distributed awkwardly, this vest feels like a t-shirt,” added our tester, who gave movement freedom a 4.5 out of 5. “Running in this vest felt super comfortable.” They credit the use of thin CORDURA fabric — a material also found in some of the best cross-training shoes — which can help keep mobility unrestricted.
Each vest comes with 10 pounds of weight pre-loaded into the vest, but there are options to add an additional 5 to 10 pounds for an additional cost. The chart below shows each vest’s weight capacity and height recommendation.
While we appreciate the ability to micro-adjust the amount of weight on each vest, our tester found making these adjustments to be a pain. “The little weight plates are tricky to get in and out of the vest,” they said. “I wouldn’t want to adjust this vest often.”
Additionally, the max weight capacity on the Hyperwear ELITE here isn’t as high as other weight vests we’ve tested, which can provide up to 50 or 60 pounds of weighted resistance.
Best Hydration Running Vest: The North Face Sunriser Run Vest 8
The North Face Sunriser Run Vest 8
The North Face Sunriser Run Vest 8
This hydration running vest comes with two HydraPak soft flasks and has a bladder pouch in the back, so you can stay hydrated while on the trail. The deep back zipper compartment can hold onto your valuables, plus keep a jacket on hand for when the weather shifts.
Specs
Price: $89
Material: Nylon ripstop, polyester, and elastane
Sizes: XS to XL
Wash instructions: Hand wash
Reservoir Compatible: Yes
Pros
Bladder pocket with internal routing for hose
Two included 500-milliliter HydraPak soft flasks
Trekking pole holder and lots of storage
Cons
Front pockets aren’t very deep
Thin fabric fastener may not keep your hydration bladder secure
Staying hydrated while logging miles is essential, and the North Face Sunriser Run Vest 8 aims to keep you sucking down H2O without fail throughout your training. This running hydration vest comes with two 500-milliliter HydraPak soft flasks, plus a 2-liter hydration reservoir in the back with internal routing to give you easy access to the straw when you need it.
Front of the North Face Sunriser Run Vest 8
I wore this on a little 5-mile loop and I don’t think I’ve ever felt so inclined to stay on top of my hydration. Workout experience scored a 5 out of 5.
The last race I did was in Japan for the Senshuu International Marathon, and in the last 5 kilometers, my entire body started to cramp up. If I could do it all over again, I would have thrown this vest on, filled up a bladder with water, and packed the HydraPak flasks with the best electrolyte supplements.
One qualm with this vest is the fabric fastener that’s supposed to keep your bladder pack secure. The fastener is weak, even when brand new, and this can lead to the bladder pouch sloshing around unrestrained in the back pocket.
There’s tons of storage on this vest. Five front pockets, a bladder pouch, a trekking pole holder, and a deep, secure main compartment in the back. Unlike some other hydration running vests, my phone could only fit in the sleeves where the HydraPak flasks fit, so if you want your phone nearby, you may need to swap out one of these flasks. Additionally, the lower pockets for snacks are shallow, and I couldn’t fully relax into my run for fear that my watermelon-flavored peach rings would pop out. Functionality scored a 4 out of 5.
Back of the North Face Sunriser Run Vest 8
I preferred the fit and adjustments on this vest to others I’ve tested. The front closure buckles were easy to snap together, and side adjustments could be made to tighten or loosen the fit. Adjustability scored a 5 out of 5.
Best Luxury Running Vest: Lululemon Down For it All Vest
Lululemon Down for it All Vest
Lululemon Down for it All Vest
This cold-weather vest has goose-down and PrimaLoft insulation to keep you warm as temperatures drop. Keep your valuables secure in the zipper pockets, and stash some snacks or other goodies in the deep side drop pockets. Constructed with Glyde fabric, this vest is water-resistant and windproof.
Specs
Price: $168
Material: Goose down, PrimaLoft, nylon, polyester, and elastane
Sizes: 0 to 14
Wash instructions: Machine wash cold
Reservoir Compatible: No
Pros
Luxurious goose down and PrimaLoft insulation keeps you warm
Lots of pocket space
Sleek, form-fitting design
Cons
Hip-skimming length bunches up when seated
Zipper and collar rub against chin
Sizing is confusing
The Lululemon Down for it All vest is our choice for the best luxury running vest due to its goose-down fill and sleek form-fitting design. I’m a little (a lot) obsessed with Lululemon, and I have spent more than I’m willing to admit on leggings, shirts, tank tops, bras, the best booty shorts… it’s a problem. This vest is on par with all of my favorites from the brand and keeps me warm whether I’m on a late-night jog or hanging with friends beside a bonfire.
Warmth scored a 5 out of 5, not just for the comfort provided by the goose feathers and stretchy fleece, but also by how the PrimaLoft insulation on the collar stays warm even when wet.
While I don’t love the fit of this vest, I’m evolved enough to admit that’s probably just a personal preference — this vest highlights my chest and hips while dipping in on my waist, and that’s not a look I like. Granted, I’m not a luxury gal — I regularly eat cold soup straight from the can — and this is a luxury product.
Front of the Lululemon Down for it All Vest.
Storage scored a 5 out of 5. There are zipper pockets on the front and large drop pockets on the sides, all of which can easily fit my iPhone 12 Pro Max. I don’t usually trust drop pockets, but they have an elastic band on top that makes it tough for my gear to fall out.
When I wore this during a run, the zipper and collar were annoying. When zipped up, the collar hits the bottom of my chin. The only viable way for me to wear this vest is if I’m running in the winter and have a neck gaiter on underneath. Otherwise, I’m doomed to suffer chin chafing. Comfort scored a 3 out of 5.
The length of this vest hits below the hips, which can help keep you warm. However, when seated, this causes the front to bunch up. Perhaps I picked the wrong size, but, to be honest, I could write a dissertation on my problems with Lululemon sizing. It’s all over the place. Typically, I wear a size 2 and a small top, but I wear a size 6 to 12 from Lululemon, depending on the product. I’d recommend trying this vest on in stores if you’re interested.
Best Lightweight Running Vest for Men: REI Co-op Swiftland Running Vest
REI Co-op Swiftland Running Vest – Men’s
Specs
Price: $69.95
Material: Nylon, spandex
Sizes: S to XXXL
Wash instructions: Machine wash cold
Reservoir Compatible: No
Pros
Men’s vest weighs only 2.9 ounces
Packs up into a small carrying case
Mesh upper back keeps things breezy
Cons
Reflective details are just in two small spots
Only one chest pocket
From running on one of the best treadmills to navigating outdoor trails, the minimalist REI Co-op Swiftland Running Vest is our choice for the best lightweight running vest for men due to its airy, barely-there feel and a shape specifically crafted for men. This vest weighs 2.9 ounces — about half as heavy as a billiard ball — and I hardly noticed I had it on during climbs and jogs. (3) Comfort, durability, and overall experience scored a 5 out of 5.
If you’re looking for something that you can stuff in your bag and have with you when you need it, this may be the right vest for you. My climbing bag is filled to the brim, but I had no problem stuffing this inside. While you can pack it up into the chest zip pocket, you can also just smoosh it down — when smooshed, it fits inside my cupped hands. Packability scored a 5 out of 5.
This is a men’s vest, but I loved the silhouette on my frame. For reference, I wear a size small in women’s vests but sized up to a medium here so the lowest part of the vest didn’t get stuck on my hips. There’s also a slight amount of stretch to the fabric, which makes sizing a little more forgiving. Fit scored a 5 out of 5.
Our tester using a pocket on the REI Co-op Swiftland Running Vest.
This vest is fairly simple, but there is a locker hook for hanging and a drawstring cinch on the bottom to keep the vest more fitted to your body. There isn’t much storage on this vest, but there is a zippered chest pocket to hold some of your valuables. I was impressed that my iPhone 12 Max Pro fit into this pocket, although running with my phone there pulls awkwardly on the vest, so you may want to store your phone elsewhere. Optionality scored a 3 out of 5.
While there are reflective details on this vest, they’re fairly small so they won’t be too helpful for training sessions in low visibility. It’s also treated with a durable water repellent to help keep water off you while running in the rain.
I’d recommend this vest for those looking for a little extra coverage on breezy days, or those wanting to add extra layers without bogging themselves down. I gave my overall experience with this vest a 5 out of 5.
Best Trail-Running Vest: Nathan Pinnacle FeatherLite 1.5-Liter Hydration Vest
Nathan Pinnacle FeatherLite 1.5 Liter Hydration Vest
Specs
Price: $110
Material: Polyester, spandex, nylon
Sizes: XXS to XXL
Wash instructions: Hand wash cold
Reservoir Compatible: No
Pros
Mesh shoulder and back panels keep you cool on the trail
Large reflective lettering on front and back
Includes a HydraPak soft flask
Cons
Chest straps are long and flap around
No bladder pouch
No zipper pocket for dedicated valuables
When hitting the trails, you’ll want a race vest that keeps you hydrated, with enough storage to stash a jacket, stow your valuables, and keep snacks within reach. The Nathan Pinnacle FeatherLite 1.5-Liter Hydration Vest is light, breathable, and ready to support your LISS cardio trail runs with a water flask, a secure zippered back pouch, and multiple pockets to hide away mid-mile fuel. Fit and comfort scored a 5 out of 5, while the storage capacity scored a 4 out of 5.
Twin pockets on the front can hold 20-ounce water flasks, and you’ll also get one HydraPak 500-milliliter soft flask to keep you hydrated during long loops. Even as the sun beats down on you, the power mesh shoulder and back panels can help keep you cool, allowing for more air flow between your sweaty body and the vest. Comfort scored a 5 out of 5.
Front of the Nathan Pinnacle FeatherLite 1.5-Liter Hydration Vest.
The rear pouch features a side zip that can be used to hold onto your valuables. When I used this vest, I liked that I was able to reach into this pocket to pull out my jacket without having to take the vest off. Plus, I didn’t have a problem keeping my keys and wallet in one of the front pouches thanks to the fabric fastener.
However, pockets scored a 3 out of 5. I knocked this down two points because I would have preferred to have a more secure zipper pocket dedicated exclusively for keys or a wallet.
If your run takes you longer than expected and you’re heading back to your car at dusk, the large reflective lettering on the front and back can help keep you visible to traffic. Compared to the best hydration packs I tried, this one was the most visible at night.
The mesh shoulder straps felt comfortable thanks to the lightweight 4.4-ounce build. However, this lighter weight comes at the cost of an included bladder pouch on the running pack, so those looking to tackle some serious miles may want to consider if that’s something they need. Hydration scored a 3 out of 5.
Back of the Nathan Pinnacle FeatherLite 1.5-Liter Hydration Vest.
[Related: How Much Water Do You Really Need to Drink a Day?]
Lastly, I didn’t love how long the chest straps were when I had everything tightened. The excess material on the sternum strap dangled down in front of me and swooshed back and forth throughout my run.
Best Reflective Running Vest: Nathan Sports Vibe Reflective Vest
Nathan Sports Vibe Reflective Vest
Specs
Price: $25
Material: Elastic, reflective material
Sizes: One size fits most
Wash instructions: Hand wash
Reservoir Compatible: No
Pros
360-degree reflectivity for added visibility
Lightweight at just 2.96 ounces
Easy fabric fastener attachment on front
Cons
“One size fits most” sizing may not fit all
There isn’t a tidy way to store this vest
The Nathan Sports Vibe Reflective Vest really does just one thing, but it does that one thing well. This vest is our choice for the best reflective running vest because it’s affordable at just $25 and can provide 360 degrees of reflectivity in low-light scenarios. Value, portability, and price scored a 5 out of 5.
While I’m not the biggest runner anymore — I did two marathons and then switched my training to sprints for more explosive speed — I am an avid cyclist and this vest will now have a home in my bike bag.
There isn’t a neat way to fold this vest up, but when folded (crumpled) up, it takes up about the size of a hamburger patty. I hate riding at night on the streets of Los Angeles, and this vest’s visibility helps give me some peace of mind when I get caught rushing home before the sun sets. Portability scored a 5 out of 5.
Our tester shows off the reflectivity of the Nathan Sports Vibe Reflective Vest.
[Related: How Long is a Marathon?]
The vest is made from elastic bands that wrap over your shoulders and around your waist. You secure them in the front with a fabric fastener. The length over the shoulders and width around the waist can be easily adjusted, creating a secure fit for most bodies. However, since this is a one size fits most vest, it may not suit all body types. Runners who are extra large around the waist or have been graced with NBA height may find these adjustments just aren’t enough. Adjustability scored a 4 out of 5.
I like how lightweight it is. I’m easily able to toss it on over running gear, but the best part about it is its versatility. I’ve used this vest during running and biking outings, and I’m already thinking about getting one for my mom for some added visibility when she walks her dog. Versatility scored a 4 out of 5.
Benefits of Running Vests
Running vests can help keep your body temperature regulated in hot, rainy, or chilly conditions, though some options also come with hydration packs, slots for weights, and plenty of pockets. Check out the benefits of these vests below, which can support your quest for the benefits of cardio whether you’re running on the street, on trails, or at the gym.
Our tester with the Patagonia Slope Runner Vest.
Storage: “I like a running vest with a ton of pockets to hold gel, keys — even my iPhone and a packable jacket for cold starts,” said marathon runner Mykee Del Mundo. While some running vests don’t offer storage, many vests have a variety of drop, zip, and fabric pockets and bladder pouches to hold the gear you need.
Hydration: When you’re out on longer trail runs, a hydration vest can help you replenish the water your body’s lost through sweat. (4) Hydration running vests often include 1- to 2-liter bladder pouches on the back or pockets on the front to store soft water bottle flasks.
Stay Warm, Cool, or Dry: The materials and coating of these vests are chosen for their ability to heat you up, cool you down, or repel water when you’re caught in a downpour. Commonly-used materials include warm polyester, water-resistant polypropylene, and nylon, which is breathable, sweat-wicking, and stretchy.
Distraction-Free: Running vests are often designed to be adjustable to your frame. This way, you can keep everything you need within reach and adjust fits to limit bounce, ensuring distraction-free runs.
How Much Do Running Vests Cost?
Our picks for the best running vests range in price from $25 to $230.99. Keep in mind that not all vests are created equal. The most expensive options on our list are weighted vests to increase intensity during your training and race vests with hydration capabilities. The most affordable option doesn’t have any pockets, and is purely just meant to add some visibility to your run for evening or early morning workouts.
What to Consider Before Buying a Running Vest
Whether you’re gearing up to hit the trails or curious how to stay hydrated while working out, slipping on one of the best running vests can help support your efforts. Consider the following areas before making a purchase.
Hydration Vests Vs. Other Vests
Your first step in figuring out which vest is right for you and your needs is figuring out what you want from your gear. If you want to stay hydrated, look for vests with flask pockets or hydration bladders. “When I’m training for a triathlon, especially the running portion, hydration is so crucial. I tend to sweat a lot, so I always try to have at least one water bottle per hour when I’m training,” says Bojana Gailic, tri-athlete and BarBend editorial member.
Our tester running with the Lululemon Down for it All vest.
If hydration isn’t your concern, and you want something lightweight to layer on when you want additional protection from the elements, look for a vest that’s packable. Other options include weighted vests that can add intensity to your training and insulated vests that help keep you warm when the temperature drops.
Fit
“If your vest is not fitted correctly, it will flop around, shift, or squeeze you uncomfortably during your workout, in which case you probably won’t ever end up wearing it,” says our expert reviewer Amanda Capritto. Certified personal trainer Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1 agrees. “Getting the right fit is key, because a vest that’s too tight will restrict movement and potentially create labored breathing,” she says. “A vest that’s too big will feel heavy and could get in the way of your arm movement, which is mostly annoying but could affect your running form.”
Fit is even more crucial as you log longer and longer days in your running shoes. “Any small movement, especially up against a sports bra, will start to chafe after a couple hours on the trail. With my previous vest, I experienced bleeding in… well, places you don’t want to have an open wound,” says Meg Leary, a trail runner who’s dabbled in ultra marathons. “Being able to adjust the tightness across various points means that I can minimize that movement and the necessity of constant BodyGlide applications.”
Depending on the amount of running you plan to do with a vest on, make sure it features enough adjustments to provide you with a fit that’ll be comfortable from start to finish.
Distance
“For extended runs that are 10+ miles, I have a roomier vest that can hold my trekking poles across the back. I also like to keep my headlamp in tote for these longer routes, especially during the fall when daylight can dissipate quicker,” says BarBend editorial member and trail runner Ben Emminger. “A packable rain jacket will make its way into my pack, too, if inclement weather is a possibility.”
The Nathan Sports Vibe Reflective Vest
If you have your eyes set on longer distances, look for packs with more storage, trekking pole holders, and bladder pouches to keep you fueled for the miles ahead.
Weather
For hot weather conditions, look for vests with breathable mesh to keep you cool and the ability to carry water throughout your run. “Hydration vests, in particular, are great for longer runs or running on hot days,” notes marathon runner Patrick Aubin. “I can get a little sweaty in a vest when the sun’s really beating down on me, but it’s worth it for the extra hydration.”
For cold weather conditions, look for vests with insulation, drop tail designs, and waist cinchers to keep your heat in and the cold weather out. This makes it easier for you to keep running everyday, even when your bed or under a blanket try to entice you away.
Storage
“I use a running vest kind of out of necessity since a lot of my running shorts don’t have zippered pockets. Plus, I feel it’s more comfortable to wear my small essentials across my chest and back rather than at my sides where gravity can take over and create a slapping sensation over my thighs,” says Emminger. “My vests double as hydration packs, too, so they’re a means to keep water on me during longer trail runs.”
Gel, keys, wallet, jacket, extra socks, a small squished peanut butter and jelly sandwich (which honestly tastes better after heating up against your back over the course of a 7-mile run) — whatever you want to carry with you, there’s a pack built to hold what you want.
Best Running Vests FAQs
What is the best running vest?
The Patagonia Slope Runner Vest is our choice for the best running vest due to its breathable mesh panels, bladder pouch, and included HydraPak flasks, which fit snugly into the front pockets. There’s a zipper pouch on the upper back to keep your valuables stashed securely, an open horizontal storage pouch that keeps your stowed layers accessible mid-run, and trekking pole loops on the front and back.
Are running vests worth it?
Yes and no. It really depends on the type of running you’re doing. If your training takes you out on a run for over an hour, you’ll probably want to be prepared with snacks, water, and some extra clothing in case the weather changes. Additionally, you’ll be able to keep your keys, wallet, and phone in your vest, so you won’t have to worry about leggings without pockets or your gear banging against your legs.
Is a running vest or belt better?
It depends on how much stuff you want to carry with you on your run. While a running belt can cost less and be less cumbersome since it’s strapped around your waist, if you’re looking to take on some serious miles or want a fastpack bag that you can run and hike with, a running vest is a better choice for your training.
References
Nystoriak, M. A., & Bhatnagar, A. (2018). Cardiovascular Effects and Benefits of Exercise. Frontiers in cardiovascular medicine, 5, 135. https://doi.org/10.3389/fcvm.2018.00135
Bennett, J. (n.d.) Utah Education Network. Clothing Fibers. https://www.uen.org/cte/facs_cabinet/downloads/ClothingI/S3O1ClothingFibers-ExampleProject.pdf
The Measure of Things. (2024). 3 ounces. Retrieved May 21, 2024 from www.themeasureofthings.com/results.php?comp=weight&unit=oz&amt=3&sort=pr&p=1
Latzka, W. A., & Montain, S. J. (1999). Water and electrolyte requirements for exercise. Clinics in sports medicine, 18(3), 513–524. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0278-5919(05)70165-4
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