I think it would be cool if we started reviewing running or workout gear on the H&F Board. Especially if we find some gear that we really like or stuff that we really hate and don't think others should buy.

I'm training for my first ultra, the Bandera 50k in January. The last time I did Bandera I wore a 2 bottle Fuelbelt and wasn't really happy with the amount of water or amount of storage it had. You had to cram GU in the little pocket and I quickly ran out of water. I also didn't like that weight on my hips, that can tend to get sore. Instead of I opted for the race vest this time. It was between the Ultimate Direction SJ and the Salomon Hydro 5 Set vest. Ultimately it was all the great things I've heard about the Hydro 5 that swayed me.

It is unbelievable how light this thing is, 8.82oz without water. It is very comfortable and the bladders that hold water don't slosh around like other bottles. The vest comes with 2 "Soft Flasks" that are shown above. Think of them as a mini Camelbak Bladder. They don't allow the water to "slosh". However they do tend to collapse once they start getting empty. You have to kinda dig deep in the pocket to get them. It has room for a large bladder to be worn on the back, however it doesn't come with it. You have to buy it separate. I opted to buy a third soft flask and stick it behind my back for really long runs.

I've now done many long runs with the vest and am used to wearing it. It is nice to have water when you want it. I've found that staying well hydrated on long runs REALLY helps me. It also has spots for nutrition, cell, and whatever else you want to carry. It breathes really well and doesn't cause me to chafe. I know I'll look goofy but I'm even thinking about wearing it during the Dallas Marathon next month. I've gotten so used to having water when I want it...I don't want to go without.

PROS:
comfort, weight, soft flask, storage, really well made

CONS:
Price ($160 is steep), doesn't come with bladder on back (at that price you'd think it would)

S-LAB ADV SKIN HYDRO 5 SET

Soft flask is the future. I prefer the Solomon soft flask handheld.



It'll last me 10 miles on a normal temp day. More than enough for Texas ultras.

quote:

---

It'll last me 10 miles on a normal temp day. More than enough for Texas ultras.

---

???

What's the capacity on that thing? I run with 2 x 20 oz handhelds much of the time and have to refill multiple times. not sure how something that will last 10 miles is supposed to work for texas ultras.

plus, i like handheld bottles b/c they break your fall when you inevitably trip on technical trails after many hours pounding out miles.

Yea lots of folks use handhelds also. I'm weird and can't run with handheld bottles. I've tried over and over. It doesn't bother most folks though.

i've never done a race where hiking poles were needed, but if i ever do (maybe Western States, if I get in) I'll probably look at the vest b/c I'll need my hands free.